
Los Angeles may be the heart of showbiz, but this week, Hollywood’s finest are turning their spotlight across the globe with a powerful message for Palestine. Billie Eilish, Cillian Murphy, Joaquin Phoenix, and Javier Bardem are just a few of the A-listers who dropped a moving video for 'Together for Palestine' on Wednesday, timed perfectly with a massive benefit concert in London. It’s got that raw, real SoCal energy - the kind you’d feel at a Venice Beach protest or a late-night Hollywood rally.
The video kicks off with a unified chant of 'Palestine' from the star-studded lineup, setting the tone for some heavy truths. 'Succession' star Brian Cox steps up to the mic, urging viewers with that grizzled gravitas to 'stand up and speak the truth for the people of Palestine.' It’s a call to action that hits hard, especially with LA’s history of activism and advocacy echoing in the background.
'We can’t stay silent while this is happening - it’s now or never to push for change,' Billie Eilish passionately shared in the video, reflecting the urgency felt by many in the entertainment community.
British comedian Steve Coogan doesn’t hold back either, delivering a punchy plea that’s pure fire. He stresses the need to 'speak out now, not later - pressure your government, support peaceful campaigns, and demand a ceasefire to stop the killing.' It’s the kind of no-nonsense vibe you’d hear over coffee in Silver Lake, where activism is practically part of the daily grind.
The video also features heavy hitters like Natasha Rothwell from 'The White Lotus,' Sharon Horgan of 'Bad Sisters,' and Benedict Wong from 'Weapons.' Released just hours before the Together for Palestine benefit concert at London’s OVO Arena Wembley, it’s clear this isn’t just a moment - it’s a movement. And for those of us in LA, where global causes often find a home, it’s a reminder of how connected we are to the world stage.
Organized by music legend Brian Eno, the benefit concert - happening at 11 a.m. Wednesday and live-streamed for global viewers - is set to raise funds for Palestinian-led groups like Taawon, Palestine Children’s Relief Fund, and Palestine Medical Relief Service. Performances by Bastille, James Blake, and Portishead will light up the stage, while celebs like Florence Pugh, Benedict Cumberbatch, and Riz Ahmed make appearances. You can almost feel the Hollywood red carpet rolling out for this one, even if it’s across the pond.
For those wanting to support from the Golden State, Together for Palestine’s online shop has merch ready to rep the cause. Whether you’re in Malibu or Mid-City, it’s an easy way to show solidarity with a click. The full lineup of video participants - from Penélope Cruz to Malala Yousafzai - is a who’s who of global influence, proving this issue transcends borders.
This event comes hot on the heels of some major LA buzz, like 'Hacks' star Hannah Einbinder’s unapologetic Emmys speech on Sunday, where she declared 'Free Palestine' and threw a 'f - ck ICE' jab for good measure. Javier Bardem also doubled down on his support on the Emmys red carpet, keeping the convo alive. It’s classic Hollywood - using the biggest stages to spark the loudest debates.
Adding fuel to the fire, over 4,000 Hollywood workers - including Joaquin Phoenix, Andrew Garfield, and Emma Stone - recently signed a pledge to boycott Israeli companies and institutions, citing complicity in 'Israel’s genocide in Gaza.' Not everyone’s on board, though - Paramount Pictures pushed back hard last week, condemning the boycott calls. It’s a divisive topic, no doubt, but one that’s got Tinseltown talking louder than a summer blockbuster premiere.