Kate Beckinsale has called out what she sees as a double standard in Hollywood after claiming that actor Mark Ruffalo has faced no backlash for his political activism, while she lost her agent over similar views.
The actress took to social media Friday after Ruffalo posted a video on Instagram promoting Palestine ’36, a new film about the Palestinian revolt against British colonial rule. Beckinsale’s criticism wasn’t aimed at Ruffalo himself, but at the industry’s reaction—or lack thereof—to political statements.
In an Instagram comment, Beckinsale wrote, “I guess having a penis in Hollywood really counts for a lot because you’ve not been fired by the same agent that I had.” She explained that she had been on good terms with her agent until she liked a post advocating a ceasefire between Palestine and Israel in November 2023. Beckinsale claims she was dropped the same day as Susan Sarandon, who had faced backlash for controversial comments at a New York City rally, which she later apologized for.
While Beckinsale praised Ruffalo’s activism, she highlighted the disparity women face in Hollywood, noting that speaking out came at a “different price” for those with a vagina. She also claims she attempted to reach out to Ruffalo privately about the issue, but he did not respond.
Her comment was quickly deleted, according to Entertainment Weekly. This episode marks Beckinsale’s return to social media after deleting her account in February, though her photos now appear to be back on her profile. Representatives for both Beckinsale and Ruffalo have not yet responded to requests for comment.#newsafro_
