Julianna Margulies apologizes for calling Black, LGBTQIA+ supporters of Palestinians antisemitic

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Actress Julianna Margulies with Emmy award in paper bag at LAX
Actress Julianna Margulies with Emmy award in paper bag at LAX. Photo by: Hot Shots Worldwide / Splash News

Emmy-winning actress Julianna Margulies recently found herself in hot water after making controversial comments that offended the LGBTQIA+ and Black communities.

In an interview on The Back Room with Andy Ostroy podcast, Margulies suggested that the Black community may have been โ€œbrainwashed to hate Jews.โ€ Understandably, her remarks sparked outrage and backlash online.

To provide some context, Margulies made the controversial comment in response to the podcast hostโ€™s claim that โ€œpeople hate Jewsโ€ and the perceived prevalence of antisemitism. While attempting to make a point about the seriousness of the issue, Margulies used problematic language that perpetuated stereotypes.

However, Margulies quickly realized the insensitivity of her words and issued a heartfelt apology to Deadline. She clarified that racism, homophobia, sexism, and any form of prejudice go against her core values.

โ€œI am horrified by the fact that statements I made on a recent podcast offended the Black and LGBTQIA+ communities, communities I truly love and respect. I want to be 100% clear: Racism, homophobia, sexism, or any prejudice against anyoneโ€™s personal beliefs or identity are abhorrent to me, full stop. Throughout my career I have worked tirelessly to combat hate of all kind, end antisemitism, speak out against terrorist groups like Hamas, and forge a united front against discrimination. I did not intend for my words to sow further division, for which I am sincerely apologetic.โ€

Although the episode was initially published on November 20, it wasnโ€™t until November 30 that her comments went viral. Andy Ostroy, the host and widower of Waitress film director Adrienne Shelly, has yet to address the criticism directed towards Margulies.