Helen Mirren addresses street harassment and 'evil Zionist' slur

Speaking at the Taormina film festival, Mirren reiterated her support for the existence of Israel, stating, "I believe in Israel because of the Holocaust." However, she also acknowledged the complexities of the situation, noting, "Evil forces are rising everywhere, even in a country like Israel." She condemned the actions in Gaza, saying, "How could you possibly repeat the actions of what was done to you as people to other people? Crimes against humanity, it’s called."

Mirren, who is not Jewish, explained her perspective stemming from growing up in post-World War II Europe and the profound realization of the Holocaust. She mentioned that while the creation of Israel was important, "maybe it was done in completely the wrong way, in the wrong place." She also recalled seeing disturbing aspects within Israel six months after the Six-Day War.

Previously, Mirren, who portrayed Israeli Prime Minister Golda Meir in a 2023 biopic, had expressed her support for Israel. She co-signed a letter backing Israel's Eurovision participation and stated her belief in Israel's future. However, she also indicated she would have joined protests against current Israeli premier Benjamin Netanyahu, identifying herself with those demonstrating.

The Metropolitan police confirmed they were aware of a video showing antisemitic verbal abuse in Tower Hill, believed to have occurred late last year. No further action was taken after discussions with Mirren and her husband, film-maker Taylor Hackford, who was present during the incident.

Mirren also briefly commented on her co-star Tom Hardy, expressing her willingness to work with him again despite reported friction on their streaming series, MobLand.