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John Cleese Faces Backlash After Canceling Israel Shows

11/14/2025

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Summary

Story summary

John Cleese faced backlash in Israel after canceling sold-out Jerusalem and Tel Aviv shows due to alleged pressure from the pro-Palestinian Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement.
Cleese, 86, cited safety concerns on X.
Israeli media criticized his social-media activity, citing a fake quote attributed to Tzipi Hotovely.
The controversy coincides with a documentary about Cleese's European tour.
Alon Yurik Productions plans Tel Aviv show featuring Kevin Spacey on November 19.

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Story summary

John Cleese faced backlash in Israel after canceling sold-out Jerusalem and Tel Aviv shows due to alleged pressure from the pro-Palestinian Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement.
Cleese, 86, cited safety concerns on X.
Israeli media criticized his social-media activity, citing a fake quote attributed to Tzipi Hotovely.
The controversy coincides with a documentary about Cleese's European tour.
Alon Yurik Productions plans Tel Aviv show featuring Kevin Spacey on November 19.