Israeli actor and producer Gal Gadot has been named the 2026 Genesis Prize Laureate, honoured for her vocal support of Israel, empathy for civilians affected by the war in Gaza, and her
influence as one of the most visible Jewish figures in global entertainment.
Often described as the “Jewish Nobel”, the $1 million Genesis Prize recognises individuals who blend professional excellence with a commitment to Jewish values. Gadot announced she will donate the entire award to Israeli charities assisting in the nation’s recovery following the October 7 attacks.
“I am humbled to receive the Genesis Prize and to stand alongside the amazing laureates who came before me,” Gadot said. “I am a proud Jew and a proud Israeli. Israel has endured unimaginable pain. Now we must begin to heal — to rebuild hearts, families, and communities.”
Stan Polovets, co-founder and chairman of the Genesis Prize Foundation, praised Gadot’s “bravery and moral courage,” citing her “steadfast defence of Israel at great personal and professional risk” and “compassion for all innocent victims of this terrible war.”
Since October 7, Gadot has been one of the entertainment industry’s most outspoken defenders of Israel. She has condemned Hamas’ atrocities, advocated for the release of hostages, and privately screened raw footage of the attacks for Hollywood executives — an act Polovets described as “a moment of moral clarity.”
With her films grossing more than $6 billion worldwide, Gadot has become one of Israel’s most recognisable cultural ambassadors. Best known for portraying Wonder Woman, she has frequently expressed pride in her Jewish heritage and was named among TIME magazine’s 100 most influential people in 2018.
Previous Genesis Prize winners include Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Steven Spielberg, Barbra Streisand, Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla, and Robert Kraft. The 2025 laureate, Argentine President Javier Milei, was honoured for his strong support of Israel and his decision to move Argentina’s embassy to Jerusalem.
Founded to celebrate Jewish contributions to humanity, the Genesis Prize channels its awards into philanthropy — supporting causes such as women’s empowerment, refugee aid, antisemitism prevention, and hostage rehabilitation. Photo by Gage Skidmore from Peoria, AZ, United States of America, Wikimedia commons.
