Susan Sarandon has stated that she faced professional repercussions in Hollywood following her calls for a ceasefire in Gaza. She described being dropped by her agency and struggling to secure roles in the United States. Sarandon shared these experiences during a discussion in Spain ahead of an award ceremony.
Susan Sarandon, known for roles in films such as 'Thelma and Louise,' revealed that her outspoken support for a ceasefire in Gaza led to significant career setbacks in Hollywood. In a discussion on February 27, 2026, ahead of receiving the International Goya award, she explained that her agency fired her specifically for marching and speaking out on the issue.
'I was fired by my agency, specifically for marching and speaking out about Gaza, for asking for a ceasefire,' Sarandon said. She added that it became impossible for her to appear on television or take on major films connected to Hollywood. In 2023, she was dropped by United Talent Agency (UTA) after participating in a pro-Palestine rally in New York City.
Since then, Sarandon has turned to opportunities abroad, securing agents in England and Italy. She recently completed a film in Italy and performed in a play at the Old Vic theater in London for several months. Even recently, an Italian director was advised against hiring her but proceeded anyway. Sarandon now focuses on independent films, often with first-time directors.
During the same event, she contrasted the situation in the United States with Spain, praising the latter for greater intellectual freedom. 'In a place where you feel repression and censorship, to see Spain and to see the president and what he says and the support that he's giving about Gaza, and to have actors like Javier Bardem come forward with such a strong voice, is so important to us in the United States,' she remarked.
The International Goya award recognizes her career, including acclaimed works like 'Dead Man Walking' and 'Atlantic City.' The Spanish Film Academy's Goya Awards ceremony is scheduled for February 28, 2026, in Barcelona.
