Mayim Bialik “Speechless” Amid Violence in Israel

Trevor Decker

Published

October 9, 2023

NOTE: This article is 7 months old and may not include the most recent information.

Mayim Bialik took to Instagram Live on Monday to share her reaction to the horrific situation unfolding in Israel. On Saturday, the militant group Hamas launched deadly attacks on Israel, killing over 1,400 Israelis and Palestinians so far.

Bialik, who is Jewish and has family living in Israel, said she felt “speechless” and that it was an “exceptionally painful time for those of us who are in the diaspora.” She went on to recite the Shema, a traditional Jewish prayer, to show support for those affected.

The Jeopardy! host acknowledged she did not want to delve into politics, but said as a public Jewish figure she felt compelled to speak out. She expressed anger and disbelief over the attacks, but also hoped people on both sides could come together.

Bialik joins numerous other celebrities like Gal Gadot, Natalie Portman, and Amy Schumer in publicly speaking out against the violence. She is currently on hiatus from Jeopardy! due to ongoing Hollywood strikes, but is expected to return once resolved.

For now, Bialik says “It’s been an exceptionally painful time for those of us who are in the diaspora. There’s a level of disbelief, there’s a level of terror and fear. I know it’s late in Israel. Our hearts are with you, no matter what side of the political divide we are on. Jews from all ends of the political spectrum have been coming together in miraculous ways.” Her emotional video highlights the pain and solidarity many Jewish people worldwide feel during this crisis.