Filming for Gal Gadot’s new movie, The Runner, came to a dramatic halt in London when pro-Palestine activists stormed the set, chanting slogans and waving flags. The protest, targeting Gadot’s vocal support for Israel, underscores the ongoing tensions surrounding her public stance. As police intervened and Gadot was escorted away, the incident reignited debates sparked by her recent Snow White controversy. Here’s what happened and why it matters.
Chaos on the Set of The Runner
On May 1, 2025, the quiet streets of Camden, London, erupted as pro-Palestine protesters descended on the set of The Runner, an upcoming Amazon Prime thriller starring Gal Gadot. The activists, numbering in the dozens, waved Palestinian flags and used megaphones to chant “Stop bombing Palestine” and “Stop killing babies.” Some beat drums to amplify the disruption, bringing production to a standstill. Video footage captured the intensity, with one protester accusing Gadot of complicity in Israel’s actions due to her past service in the Israeli military and her public statements supporting the country.
Gadot, who was reportedly on set, was quickly escorted to safety and replaced by a body double. Around a dozen police officers arrived to manage the situation, engaging with protesters along Camden Road. While no arrests were confirmed, the incident left the production team scrambling and Gadot reportedly furious at the interruption. The protest reflects growing scrutiny of Gadot’s political views, which have drawn criticism since her outspoken support for Israel following the October 2023 Hamas attack.
A crowd with flags, similar to the protest that disrupted Gal Gadot’s film set in London. Image by Pexels.
Gal Gadot’s Controversial Stance
At 40, Gadot is no stranger to controversy. A former combat fitness instructor in the Israeli Defense Forces, she has consistently voiced support for Israel, particularly after the Hamas attack at the Nova Music Festival in October 2023, which killed 364 people. Her Instagram posts condemning the attack and calling for the release of hostages have drawn both praise and backlash. Pro-Palestine activists, including those at the protest, have criticized her for supporting Israel’s military actions in Gaza, which have resulted in significant civilian casualties.
The London protest echoes earlier tensions surrounding Gadot’s role as the Evil Queen in Disney’s Snow White. The film faced boycott calls from pro-Palestine groups and was banned in Lebanon due to Gadot’s inclusion on the country’s Israel boycott list. Her co-star Rachel Zegler’s public support for Palestine further fueled rumors of an on-set feud, with Zegler’s “Free Palestine” tweet in August 2024 reportedly leading to death threats against Gadot. Disney responded by increasing Gadot’s security, highlighting the volatile intersection of Hollywood and geopolitics.
Why The Runner Matters
The Runner marks Gadot’s latest high-profile project, showcasing her as a versatile actress in a gritty thriller. The disruption underscores the challenges of filming in public spaces amid heightened political sensitivities. While the protest delayed production, it also amplified discussions about celebrity activism and the Israel-Palestine conflict, with social media platforms like X buzzing with reactions. Some praised the protesters’ boldness, while others condemned the disruption as unfair targeting of Gadot.
A Pattern of Protest
This isn’t the first time Gadot has faced public backlash. Her Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony in March 2025 was disrupted by both pro-Palestine and pro-Israel protesters, delaying the event. Similarly, her Snow White promotional events were marred by boycott calls and online harassment. These incidents highlight the polarized reactions to Gadot’s identity as an Israeli actress and her unapologetic stance, which she recently defended in a Variety interview, saying she prays for “better days for all.”
Conclusion: A Star in the Spotlight
The disruption of Gal Gadot’s The Runner set by pro-Palestine protesters is more than a Hollywood headline—it’s a snapshot of the complex interplay between celebrity, politics, and public sentiment. As Gadot continues to navigate her career under intense scrutiny, her resilience remains evident. The incident raises questions about the role of artists in global conflicts and the boundaries of protest. Will The Runner overcome this setback to shine, or will controversy continue to overshadow Gadot’s work? Only time will tell, but the world is watching.
