Dina Rickman

Penelope Cruz and Javier Bardem allegedly risk being “blacklisted” by studios over an open letter they signed which accused Israel of “genocide” in Gaza.

The Times (£) reports a number of leading figures in the film industry are believed to have pledged to shun the Oscar-winning pair, who are also husband and wife. According to the paper, industry figures privately said that actors “who persisted in openly criticising Israel would struggle to find work.”

The open letter, published by Europa Press, urged Israel to “lift the blockade, which the Gaza Strip has suffered for more than a decade”. Following its publication both Ms Cruz and Mr Bardem were accused of “inciting anti-semitism” by fellow actor John Voight.

But as the Hollywood Reporter notes, Cruz later clarified the letter saying she was aware of the “complexity” of the situation. “My only wish and intention in signing that group letter is the hope that there will be peace in both Israel and Gaza. I am hopeful all parties can agree to a cease fire and there are no more innocent victims on either side of the border.”