Protests Erupt at jerry Seinfeld Show in Eugene Over Comedian’s Israel Support
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Eugene, Oregon – A sold-out performance by comedian Jerry seinfeld at the Hult Center on Friday, August 15, was met with demonstrations from local activists critical of his vocal support for Israel. Approximately 30 to 40 protesters gathered outside the venue prior to the 7 p.m.show, voicing their opposition to Seinfeld’s public statements regarding the conflict in Gaza and Palestine.
Background of the Protest
The demonstration was initiated by Eugene resident Steve Dear, who expressed strong disapproval of Seinfeld’s views. “I think the city, which owns the Hult Center, and the Hult Center should have nothing to do with someone like Jerry Seinfeld. He should have been canceled,” Dear stated, adding that he had previously attended Seinfeld’s performances on several occasions.
City officials clarified that the Hult center operates as a rental facility and does not base booking decisions on political viewpoints. Benjamin Klipfel, from the city’s Library, Recreation and Cultural Services Department, explained, “Anybody who meets our rental policies is actually allowed to rent the facility as it’s a publicly open space.” He emphasized the city’s commitment to providing public access to programs and respecting diverse perspectives.
Seinfeld’s Controversial Stance
The protests stem from Seinfeld’s consistent advocacy for Israel, particularly in the wake of the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack and the subsequent Israeli military response in gaza.Seinfeld’s past actions have drawn criticism, including a 2018 visit to Caliber 3, an Israeli counterterrorism training camp. He also visited a kibbutz near the Gaza border in the months following the October 7th attacks to express solidarity with those affected by the violence .
Did You Know? The concept of “public square” – a space for open dialog and debate - is rooted in ancient Greek traditions and remains a cornerstone of democratic societies.
Seinfeld’s position has sparked protests at other events. In May 2024, students at Duke University walked out during his commencement speech, and a similar disruption occurred during a performance in Norfolk, Virginia. More recently, Seinfeld engaged in public confrontations with individuals expressing pro-Palestinian views, responding with dismissive remarks in February and may of 2025 , .
Demonstration Details
Outside the Hult Center, protesters directly engaged with attendees, sharing information about Seinfeld’s views and urging them to reconsider their support. The Willamette Solidarity Singers performed anti-war songs, and one protester symbolically lay covered in a white sheet to represent casualties of the conflict. A flyer circulated among attendees questioned whether supporting Seinfeld aligned with endorsing his political stance.
Pro Tip: when engaging in peaceful protest, it’s crucial to understand and respect local ordinances regarding permits, noise levels, and public assembly.
Witnesses reported both respectful conversations and heated exchanges between protesters and attendees. Diana Bilovsky, a 77-year-old protester, alleged she was physically jostled by an attendee while displaying a Palestinian flag. As Seinfeld’s performance began, protesters concluded with a closing circle and chants.
