The Dispute Erupts
Mark Ruffalo has responded to accusations of antisemitism from Paramount Skydance, which criticized his remarks about their $111 billion merger with Warner Bros Discovery. Ruffalo, known for his vocal stance on Gaza, posted a video on Friday that included Safra Catz, an Oracle executive, talking about technology supplied to Israel following the October 7 attacks, connecting it to the merger. Ruffalo's video linked the deal to the technology provided to Israel.[S1][S2]
Ruffalo accused Larry Ellison, Oracle's co-founder and father of Paramount CEO David Ellison, of using his wealth to fund the acquisition. Larry Ellison, worth an estimated $189bn, has agreed to backstop $40.4bn in equity financing for the deal, which would bring together major studios and networks like CNN and HBO Max.[S1][S3]
Paramount's Rebuke and Ruffalo's Response
Paramount responded on Saturday, saying it was troubled by the use of 'antisemitic tropes' in a business dispute. The company argued that terms like 'genocide' and 'apartheid' applied to a corporate transaction were 'a bridge too far' and cheapened real suffering. It also stated it does not tolerate prejudice of any kind.[S1][S2]
Mark Ruffalo vehemently denied the accusations, labeling them as 'fundamentally false and offensive'. He explained that his criticism of Israeli military actions and corporate deals does not equate to antisemitism, and expressed his profound respect for Jewish individuals in his personal and professional circles. Ruffalo also raised concerns about the potential impact of the merger on editorial independence and employment.[S1][S2][S4]
Broader Implications
The merger, approved by the US Department of Justice in June, remains on hold pending a federal judge's decision on a lawsuit from 12 states challenging it on antitrust grounds. If not closed by September 30, Paramount Skydance could face fees of around $7m per day.[S1]
John Cusack has shown solidarity with Ruffalo, responding 'Solidarity — well said' to his statement. The Simon Wiesenthal Center praised Paramount for its stance. The clash underscores the growing intersection of corporate power, technology, and activism in Hollywood.[S4][S1]
