ALBAWABA - Jamie Lee Curtis, an Oscar-winning actress, has faced criticism for remarks that liken the devastation inflicted by the wildfires in Los Angeles to the war-torn country of Gaza. She made the comment while participating in a Q&A session for her next drama, The Last Showgirl, in which she costarred with Pamela Anderson.
Curtis said in a social media video that went viral, "The entire Pacific Palisades looks like, you know, unfortunately Gaza or one of those war-torn countries where awful things have happened." She expressed worry about the present status of the city and recounted the destruction the fires had created in her area.
Her remarks immediately provoked internet criticism, with many people scolding her for being insensitive by drawing a comparison between man-made violence and natural disasters. "Coming from a place of privilege and wealth and then comparing it to Gaza?" said one person. Oh no. An further person referred to it as a "atrocious comparison," claiming that Curtis was downplaying the actual suffering in Gaza.
Criticism was heightened by Curtis's previous handling of the Gaza crisis. She accidentally shared a picture of Palestinian youngsters in 2023 as part of a post meant to express solidarity with Israel during the war. Many pointed out that she did not show sympathy for Palestinian civilians at the time, even if she subsequently corrected the mistake.
Some expressed empathy for Curtis in spite of the criticism, recognizing her emotional response to the destruction. Curtis made a $1 million gift to help with Los Angeles wildfire recovery operations the day before the uproar.
"It feels bizarre to be discussing a movie, but art will save us no matter what," Curtis said as she wrapped off her speech, reflecting on the value of art in trying times. Her analogy has, meanwhile, rekindled debates over the terminology used when discussing international disasters.
