Mia Khalifa's Playboy podcast deal terminated over her pro-Hamas posts
What's the story
Former adult film star Sarah Chamoun, also known as Mia Khalifa, has lost a podcast deal with Canadian radio host Todd Shapiro due to her public support for Palestine amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.
Khalifa's controversial comments on X, a social media platform, led to her dismissal. In her posts, she encouraged people to stand with Palestinians, calling them "freedom fighters," which many found insensitive given the current violence.
Details
Shapiro condemns Khalifa's statements
Shapiro, who had planned to work with Khalifa on a podcast, took to X to voice his disapproval of her remarks.
He described her posts as "horrendous" and "disgusting," claiming that she was endorsing violence and needed to "evolve and become a better human being."
Shapiro declared that their partnership was terminated effective immediately.
Twitter Post
Check out Todd Shapiro's post
This is such a horrendous tweet @miakhalifa. Consider yourself fired effective immediately. Simply disgusting. Beyond disgusting. Please evolve and become a better human being. The fact you are condoning death, rape, beatings and hostage taking is truly gross. No words can… https://t.co/ez4BEtNzj4
— Todd Shapiro (@iamToddyTickles) October 8, 2023
What Next?
Khalifa clarifies her stance
In response to the criticism, Mia Khalifa clarified that her statements were not intended to provoke violence.
She explained that she referred to Palestinian citizens as "freedom fighters" because they struggle for their freedom daily.
Despite losing business opportunities due to her support for Palestine, Khalifa expressed regret for not verifying whether she was entering into business with "Zionists."
Twitter Post
Khalifa's clarification
I just want to make it clear that this statement in no way shape or form is enticing spread of violence, I specifically said freedom fighters because that’s what the Palestinian citizens are… fighting for freedom every day https://t.co/U9mLwzqnnT
— Mia K. (@miakhalifa) October 9, 2023
Insights
Social media users criticize Khalifa
Many social media users criticized Mia Khalifa's comments on the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Some argued that freedom fighters do not participate in violent acts against civilians, while others advised celebrities to stick to their area of expertise and avoid commenting on political issues.
The backlash underscores the divisive nature of the ongoing conflict and the potential consequences of taking a public stance.
Facts
Death toll rises in Israel-Hamas conflict
As the conflict between Israel and Hamas persists, the death toll has reached around 1, 600 on both sides.
Over 800 people have lost their lives in Israel, while Israeli counter-strikes have claimed over 700 lives in Gaza. More than 3,700 have been wounded.
The conflict has entered its fourth day. As many as 137,000 people have taken shelter at United Nations emergency shelters in Gaza.