HOLLYWOOD, LOS ANGELES -- Gal Gadot celebrated a remarkable milestone on March 18, 2025, as she was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, marking her as the first Israeli actress to receive this accolade. This momentous occasion not only recognized her impressive contributions to film but also coincided with significant political tensions, as the ceremony was disrupted by demonstrations from both pro-Palestinian and pro-Israel protesters.
The star-studded event took place outside the El Capitan Theater on Hollywood Boulevard, where a mix of cheers and chants filled the air. Protesters with signs voicing their views on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict created a backdrop of tension as the celebration unfolded. Despite the tumultuous environment, Gadot, dressed in a stunning white fringe dress, captured the crowd's heart with heartfelt anecdotes about her journey from a small town in Israel to international stardom.
Gadot eloquently expressed her gratitude during the ceremony, stating, "I'm just a girl from a town in Israel." She continued, reflecting on her unexpected rise in the entertainment industry, “I could never imagine such a moment. I never dreamt of becoming an actress and I never knew that these things are possible.” Her words resonated powerfully with many young girls in attendance, as she emphasized the importance of dreams and hard work: "This star will remind me that with hard work and passion and some faith, anything is possible." Gadot also addressed her daughters, noting that being a mother to them is her proudest achievement.
The ceremony attracted notable figures from Hollywood, including Vin Diesel, her co-star from the "Fast & Furious" franchise, who praised her "strength and empathy." He remarked, "I just love her so much," highlighting the deep bonds formed during their time working together. Patty Jenkins, director of the iconic "Wonder Woman" films, reminisced about their close friendship, saying, "Not only have we worked together hundreds of days, but we’ve also become super-close family friends." Jenkins has often spoken of Gadot’s remarkable ability to embody complex female figures and inspire audiences.
However, the joyous celebration was not without controversy. Minutes before the ceremony commenced, dozens of protesters gathered nearby, some reportedly engaging in confrontations with the police. An LAPD spokesperson confirmed that a pro-Palestinian demonstrator allegedly snatched an Israeli flag, which led to heightened tensions but ultimately no reported arrests. This disruption underscored the complexity of Gadot's identity as an Israeli actress in today’s political climate.
Gadot has consistently used her platform to speak out, especially following the tragic events of October 7, 2023, which reignited her commitment to advocate for her homeland. "I am all about humanity," she stated, expressing her desire to use her voice for positive change. In her keynote speech at the Anti-Defamation League’s “Never is Now” conference earlier in March, she poignantly remarked on the challenges faced by her people amidst rising antisemitism, noting, "Never did I imagine that on the streets of the United States, and different cities around the world, we would see people not condemning Hamas but celebrating, justifying and cheering on a massacre of Jews."
The event came just days before the release of her latest project, a live-action adaptation of Disney’s "Snow White," in which Gadot portrays the Evil Queen. Critics have pointed out controversies surrounding the film, including casting choices and depictions that have sparked discussions online. Gadot has embraced this new role, indicating a willingness to explore varied dimensions of her career that challenge her previous heroic portrayals.
Following the ceremony, Gadot joyfully posed with her husband, Jaron Varsano, and their four daughters, often sharing insights into her family life, including the coincidence that her daughter Maya celebrated her eighth birthday that day.
As she looks back at her journey from a 23-year-old girl visiting the Walk of Fame for the first time nearly two decades ago, Gadot remains grounded in her heritage. She noted, "To all the young women out there, especially young girls watching, if a girl from Rosh Ha’ayin can get a star on the Hollywood Boulevard, anything is possible." With her star now in place, it serves not only as a testament to her talent but also as an emblem of resilience and determination in the face of complex challenges. Gal Gadot stands as an inspiring figure, both on and off the screen, committed to amplifying voices that are often unheard and nurturing the next generation of dreamers.
