While presenting the Oscar for best international film, Javier Bardem started his time at the poduium by saying “No to war and free Palestine,” which earned a big round of applause from the audience at the show.
The moment follows the national backlash recent over American military action in Iran, as well United States intervention in conflicts between Israel and Palestine.
On the red carpet of the Emmy awards this season, Bardem spoke to Variety about his passion on the topic.
“Here I am today, denouncing the genocide in Gaza,” he said. “I am talking about the IAGS, the International Association of Genocide Scholars, who study thoroughly genocide and has declared it is a genocide. That’s why we ask for a commercial and diplomatic blockade and also sanctions on Israel to stop the genocide. Free Palestine.”
Another political lightening rod this season was various celebrities have spoken out and condemned ICE during the 2026 awards season, wearing “ICE Out” pins that have gained notable traction. Participants such as Billie Eilish, Mark Ruffalo, Justin Bieber, Lady Gaga, and Samuel L. Jackson wore the pin when appearing on the red carpets of various awards ceremonies, including the Grammys, Golden Globes, and Actor Awards.
The “Be Good-ICE Out” campaign aims to “honor Alex Pretti, Renee Good, Keith Porter Jr. and every person harmed or killed by ICE.” The movement is endorsed by a coalition of leaders and organizations including the ACLU, Maremoto, National Domestic Workers Alliance, and Working Families Power.
Stars and filmmakers previously joined anti-ICE protests in Park City, UT, during the Sundance Film Festival in January. Natalie Portman, Olivia Wilde, Will Poulter, Zoey Deutch, and Molly Ringwald were among those who spoke to Variety to criticize the Trump administration’s immigration policies.
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