Story perspectives

Bardem at Cannes links leaders to violence against women

5/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

At Cannes, actor Javier Bardem condemned toxic masculinity and violence against women, noting Spain averages two women killed monthly by ex-partners.
He named President Donald Trump, President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as men whose toxic behavior causes deaths.
Bardem, portraying director Esteban Martinez, said women reject his advances, claimed genocide continues in Israel, and recalled an anti-war pin at Oscars to protest Iraq and Iran wars.

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Story summary

At Cannes, actor Javier Bardem condemned toxic masculinity and violence against women, noting Spain averages two women killed monthly by ex-partners.
He named President Donald Trump, President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as men whose toxic behavior causes deaths.
Bardem, portraying director Esteban Martinez, said women reject his advances, claimed genocide continues in Israel, and recalled an anti-war pin at Oscars to protest Iraq and Iran wars.