Paramount Slams Mark Ruffalo’s Merger Attack as ‘Antisemitic,’ Says Company Does Not ‘Tolerate Prejudice of Any Kind’

Amid growing controversy surrounding the proposed merger between Warner Bros. Discovery and Paramount, the latter has come out swinging against a recent attack by actor Mark Ruffalo. In a strongly worded statement, Paramount accused Ruffalo of invoking ‘antisemitic tropes’ in his criticism of the merger.

The controversy began when Ruffalo took to Instagram to share a years-old clip of Paramount board member Safra Catz discussing the Israeli military’s use of Oracle technology to assist in the 2023 Oct. 7 terror attacks. Ruffalo referred to Larry Ellison as a ‘classic Oligarch,’ and warned of the danger of his son’s bid to combine Paramount with Warner Bros. Discovery.

Ruffalo’s post sparked widespread outrage, with many industry sources expressing concern over his conflating the merger with anti-Israel sentiments. Paramount’s response to the criticism was swift and decisive, with the company stating that it ‘does not tolerate prejudice of any kind, against anyone.’

The company also emphasized its commitment to acceptance and diversity, stating that it is ‘troubled when antisemitic tropes are invoked in purported service of a business dispute.’ Paramount’s statement concluded by saying that it would rather ‘build than further engage in such rhetoric.’

Ruffalo’s criticism of the merger has been met with opposition from numerous industry sources, who have expressed concern over his use of language and accusations. The controversy has highlighted the complex and sensitive nature of the proposed merger, which has been the subject of much debate and discussion in recent weeks.

In related news, actor Jared Leto has been accused of criminal sexual conduct by four women, according to a recent documentary. Leto has denied the allegations, stating that they are ‘categorically false.’

As the controversy surrounding the merger continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery will proceed. One thing is certain, however: the company’s commitment to acceptance and diversity will be put to the test in the days and weeks ahead.