Bill Maher Comments on Snow White Controversy Amid Lebanon Ban
The Disney live-action adaptation of Snow White has recently generated headlines due to controversy and disappointing box office performance. Comedian Bill Maher addressed these issues in a segment on his show, Real Time with Bill Maher.
Lebanon’s Ban on Snow White
Lebanon announced a ban on the film owing to the casting of Gal Gadot, an Israeli actress and former soldier in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Gadot has been placed on Lebanon’s boycott list, prompting officials to call for the film’s removal from the country.
During Maher’s ‘New Rules’ segment, he quipped, “Now that Lebanon has announced it’s banning Snow White because it stars Gal Gadot, who was a sergeant in the Israeli Defense Force, someone has to tell them, ‘You’re working too hard.’” He added, “No one’s going to see that movie anyway.”
Controversy Surrounding the Film
Maher’s comments reflect the broader criticism the film has faced. Although Gadot has been a focal point of discontent due to her military affiliation, issues have also arisen from her co-star Rachel Zegler’s outspoken political views and ethnic background.
Maher humorously suggested that attempting to resolve longstanding regional tensions by opposing Gadot is futile, remarking, “And you’re not gonna settle 4,000 years of acrimony by crossing Gal Gadot. If you want 4,000 years of acrimony, you cross Blake Lively.”
Box Office Performance
Since its US release on March 21, Snow White has not only wrestled with critical reception but has also incurred significant financial losses—estimated at $115 million. The combination of Gadot’s military background and controversies regarding the cast has contributed to its poor performance at the box office. Prior to this film, Lebanon had also banned Gadot’s previous works, including Death on the Nile and Wonder Woman.
Conclusion
The ongoing discourse surrounding Snow White serves as a reminder of how international relations and public perceptions of individuals can impact entertainment productions. As the film continues to struggle in the market, the ramifications of these controversies remain to be seen.