Adam Brody’s support for Palestine has sparked controversy surrounding Nobody Wants This, with a recently published article questioning whether viewers can separate the actor’s political views from his role as a rabbi in the Netflix series. The debate comes after Brody described Israel’s actions in Gaza as genocide and called for a free Palestine, drawing criticism from pro-Israel figures.
A Rabbi Questions Whether Viewers Can Separate the Actor From His Character
In an opinion piece published by the Jewish Telegraphic Agency (JTA), Rabbi Yael Buechler explored the tension between enjoying Nobody Wants This and disagreeing with the political views of its lead actor. Buechler, who serves as a rabbi at The Leffell School and founded MidrashManicures, reflected on the challenge of watching Brody portray Rabbi Noah Roklov following his public comments on Gaza.
“There’s a certain cognitive dissonance that comes with becoming invested in a television character portrayed by an actor whose public statements conflict with one’s own beliefs,” Buechler wrote. “It’s especially complicated when that character is a rabbi.”
She also acknowledged that some viewers might choose not to watch the show’s third season because of Brody’s statements, raising questions about how an actor’s personal beliefs can shape an audience’s relationship with an on-screen character.
Adam Brody Says He Wants a Free Palestine
The controversy began after Brody addressed the situation in Gaza in an interview with GQ published in late September, as Nobody Wants This prepared to return for its third season.
Asked about his stance on Israel and Gaza, the actor said he had discussed the issue privately but had not spoken about it much publicly. He then made his position clear.
“Put me down as thinking it’s a genocide. Put me down as wanting a free Palestine,” Brody said.
His remarks marked a public statement of support for Palestinian freedom from the actor, who plays one of the show’s central Jewish characters.
Rabbi Steve Leder Pushes Back Against Brody’s Remarks
Brody’s comments drew criticism from Rabbi Steve Leder, who advised the Nobody Wants This team on its portrayal of Judaism during the show’s first season.
Leder publicly challenged Brody’s characterization of Israel’s actions in Gaza, arguing that the actor lacked sufficient knowledge of the subject. He also rejected the claim that genocide was taking place in Gaza, making his disagreement with Brody’s position clear.
The exchange brought further attention to the actor’s comments, particularly given his role in a series that places Jewish identity and religious life at the center of its story.
‘Nobody Wants This’ Creator Erin Foster Weighs In
The debate also reached the show’s creator, Erin Foster, who addressed Brody’s comments in an interview for the Not Skinny But Not Fat podcast.
Foster acknowledged that the two disagree politically, while emphasizing that people can work together despite having different views.
“While I love Adam, I also disagree with him — and that’s OK,” Foster said.
She also described Nobody Wants This as a “love letter to Judaism,” explaining that the series aims to offer a positive portrayal of Jewish identity and traditions.
Season Three Arrives Amid the Controversy
The discussion comes as Nobody Wants This returns for its third season, continuing the story of Rabbi Noah Roklov, played by Brody, and Joanne, played by Kristen Bell, as they navigate their relationship and the complexities of their different backgrounds.
While the series focuses on romance, family, and religious identity, Brody’s remarks have brought a wider conversation about Palestine, political expression, and celebrity accountability into the spotlight.
The debate also raises a question that extends beyond the show itself: should an actor’s public views influence how audiences engage with the characters they portray, particularly when those characters represent a religious or cultural identity?
We Said This: Don’t Miss… ‘Nobody Wants This’ Star Adam Brody Speaks Out For a Free Palestine