Applause for Javier Bardem’s ‘Free Palestine’ remark as Priyanka Chopra Jonas faces backlash

Javier Bardem’s ‘Free Palestine’ remark earns Oscars applause as Priyanka Chopra Jonas’ reaction sparks backlash

Actor Javier Bardem delivered one of the most talked-about moments of the 98th Academy Awards when he voiced support for Palestine while presenting alongside Priyanka Chopra Jonas.

The pair appeared on stage at the Dolby Theatre to present the Oscar for Best International Feature Film. As he began speaking, Bardem opened with the words “No to war and free Palestine,” drawing a loud round of applause from the audience inside the theater.

The Spanish actor also wore two pins on his tuxedo lapel, one reading “No to War” and another showing support for Palestine, reinforcing his anti-war message during the live broadcast.

Standing beside him at the podium, Chopra Jonas appeared to smile and nod as Bardem delivered the statement before the pair continued presenting the nominees.

Javier Bardem says “no to war and free Palestine” at the #Oscars, earning a huge round of applause from everyone in the room.

(via ABC/AMPAS) pic.twitter.com/7p3whJzhbm

— Variety (@Variety) March 16, 2026

Bardem has been among the more outspoken voices in Hollywood on the war in the Gaza Strip. The Academy Award-winning actor, known for films such as No Country for Old Men, Biutiful and Before Night Falls, has repeatedly condemned the conflict and called for international pressure on Israel. In recent interviews, he has cited statements from the International Association of Genocide Scholars while urging sanctions and diplomatic action.

Earlier this year, Bardem was also among more than 100 film workers who signed an open letter criticizing the Berlin International Film Festival for what the group described as silence on Gaza and alleged censorship of filmmakers speaking out about the conflict.

The moment quickly circulated online after the broadcast, with clips of Bardem’s statement spreading widely across social media platforms including X and Reddit. Users praised the actor for using the Oscars stage to speak out.

Online reaction also focused heavily on Chopra Jonas. Some social media users criticized the actor for appearing to smile and nod during Bardem’s statement while remaining silent herself.

round of applause from everyone except for the zionist war monger stood next to him

— Hihi Gadid • 🇵🇸 (@bigbrownenergy) March 16, 2026

Ironic he is saying it next to the zionist Priyanka

— SB (@AR151007) March 16, 2026

Several posts pointed out that Chopra Jonas has worked with UNICEF since 2006 and became a global Goodwill Ambassador in 2016, questioning why she has not publicly addressed this or the current Iran conflict despite her humanitarian role.