The Controversy and Backlash
Stranger Things star Noah Schnapp has broken his silence on the backlash to his 'Zionism is Sexy' controversy, which saw demand for the star to be removed from Season 5 of the Netflix series.
Schnapp has run into numerous controversies since being catapulted to fame as Will Byers in Netflix’s Stranger Things, with the latest backlash arriving after an Instagram Story was shared in which he’s seen laughing with friends in a coffee shop as they pass around stickers saying 'Zionism is sexy' and 'Hamas is Isis' amid the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Noah Schnapp, who is of both Russian and Moroccan Jewish descent, took to Instagram to share a lengthy statement on the ongoing conflict in which he criticized those 'choosing sides.' There has been widespread criticism towards the actor, with calls for him to be cancelled.
Prior to this, Schnapp has remained quiet, having turned off or limited comments on his posts and avoiding addressing the situation – until now.
Noah Schnapp's Response
Taking to TikTok on January 16, Schnapp shared a clip in which he addresses the controversy, claiming his comments were 'misconstrued.'
In the clip, Schnapp expresses his desire for peace and safety for all innocent people affected by the conflict, emphasizing the importance of open discussions and learning from friends of Palestinian background.
He highlights the shared hope for peace and the end of innocent lives lost in the conflict, expressing a stand against the killing of innocent people on both sides.
Schnapp concludes by calling for understanding, compassion, and unity among all people, emphasizing that regardless of race, ethnicity, background, or sexuality, we are all human and should support each other for peace and humanity.
Moving Forward
Noah Schnapp's acknowledgment of the controversy and his stance on peace and unity reflect a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding the Israel-Hamas conflict.
His call for compassion, understanding, and support for peace and humanity resonates with the broader conversation on global conflicts and the importance of empathy and solidarity.
As Schnapp continues to navigate public scrutiny and engage in discussions on sensitive issues, his message serves as a reminder of the power of dialogue and the potential for positive change through open communication and empathy.
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