Unveiling Anti-Semitism in Hollywood: Jon Lovitz Speaks Out

Edited by: Fern Sidman

In the aftermath of the October 7 attack against Israel in which 1200 Israelis and others were brutally murdered by Hamas terrorists,  the issue of soaring anti-Semitism has resurfaced with alarming vigor. However, what may come as a surprise to many is the revelation by Jewish actor and comedian Jon Lovitz that Hollywood itself harbors a deep-seated antisemitism problem, and the source of this discrimination is, remarkably, fellow Jews, according to a recent report on the Fox News web site.

Lovitz delves into the historical roots of Jewish involvement in Hollywood, tracing back to a time when Jewish migrants, including his own grandparents, sought refuge in America, as was reported by Fox News. Facing exclusion from lucrative industries, they found their niche in what Lovitz describes as a “guttered business” – the nickelodeon – which eventually evolved into the movie industry that birthed Hollywood. Despite contributing significantly to the entertainment landscape, Jewish individuals had to make sacrifices to assimilate, often changing their names, the Fox News report said. Examples such as Tony Curtis (born Bernard Schwartz) and John Garfield (born Jacob Garfinkely) underscore the lengths some went to in order to fit into American society, the report added.

Lovitz goes on to share personal experiences of discrimination, revealing that he has lost acting opportunities due to his Jewish heritage. Fox News related that Lovitz noted that one notable instance was his exclusion from the 2000 Mike Nichols film “What Planet Are You From?” Despite assurances from close friend Garry Shandling and Lovitz himself being enthusiastic about the role, the part was ultimately given to Greg Kinnear. Lovitz attributes this decision to Nichols claiming that Lovitz and Shandling were “too much alike” – a sentiment that Lovitz found incredulous and rooted in their shared Jewish identity, the report on Fox News said.

Speaking to Fox News, Lovitz said: “And I know Greg. Greg’s a great guy, fine actor, friend, you know. He’s great. But I said, ‘What happened? I thought you said the part was mine.’ And my manager Brad Grey, who’s Jewish who’s producing the movie, said ‘Well… [Nichols] felt you and Garry are you’re too much alike. And I know Garry.  I go, ‘I’m nothing like Garry.’ I go, ‘what do you- what? What are you talking about?’ He goes, ‘Well, you know.’ I go, ‘No, what?’ He goes ‘You know, Jewish. You’re both Jewish. I said, ‘What?!’ And this is coming from Mike Nichols, who’s Jewish.”

The actor-turned-comedian shed light on what he perceives as a prevalent trope in Hollywood – the “self-loathing Jew.” Lovitz expressed his dismay at encountering anti-Semitic remarks from Jewish individuals within the entertainment industry. As was noted in the Fox News report, he highlighted instances where people in show business have made derogatory comments based on their shared Jewish heritage, an experience that he finds both perplexing and disheartening.

Lovitz points to Senator Bernie Sanders as a prime example of the “self-loathing Jew” trope, specifically in relation to Sanders’ stance on Israel, according to the Fox News report.  He criticized Sanders for what he perceives as a contradiction – advocating for wealth redistribution while enjoying personal wealth, as was reported by Fox News.  Lovitz suggests that this attitude, in which one disapproves of others making money, is indicative of a self-loathing mentality within the Jewish community.

Jon Lovitz’s candid revelations about anti-Semitism within Hollywood offer a unique perspective on the challenges faced by Jewish individuals in the entertainment industry. The actor’s assertion that much of the discrimination he has encountered comes from within his own community adds a layer of complexity to the ongoing conversation about anti-Semitism. As the industry grapples with issues of representation and inclusivity, Lovitz’s testimony serves as a reminder that progress is still needed to ensure that talent is recognized and valued, irrespective of one’s cultural or religious background.