Tovah Feldshuh says her disagreement with Adam Brody over Israel and Gaza has not created rising tensions on the set of Nobody Wants This. The actress addressed speculation about their working relationship after publicly objecting to his description of Israel’s conduct as genocide.
Feldshuh, 77, plays Bina Roklov, the mother of Brody’s Rabbi Noah, in the Netflix romantic comedy. Her character frequently challenges her son’s relationship with Joanne, played by Kristen Bell.
The political disagreement drew attention after Brody discussed Palestine in a September interview with GQ. Feldshuh subsequently criticized accusations of genocide in an interview with the New York Post, prompting questions about how the actors would work together.
Series creator Erin Foster has also addressed Brody’s remarks. During an appearance on Amanda Hirsch’s Not Skinny But Not Fat podcast, she discussed balancing her own views with those of colleagues who disagree.
Feldshuh Says Political Differences Will Stay Off the Set
“Tensions are NOT RISING. Profound differences of opinion are,” Feldshuh wrote on Threads, according to Entertainment Weekly.
She asked readers to distinguish between the two and said the disagreements would not be brought onto the set. Her statement addressed reports about the working environment without retracting her criticism of Brody’s position.
Feldshuh also said she deeply enjoys filming the series and hopes to return for a fourth season. A renewal had not been announced as of the October 31 reports.
Brody Discussed Gaza During an Interview About Political Activism
Brody’s interview with GQ, published September 25, focused on political activism, including his volunteer work with Swing Left. Asked about Israel and Gaza, he said he had discussed the subject more privately than publicly.
“Put me down as thinking it’s a genocide. Put me down as wanting a free Palestine,” he said.
Brody expressed hope that a future American administration could change policies contributing to the suffering. He also said he was willing to answer political questions when asked, although his interviews generally concerned the show and he avoided social media.
Feldshuh Objected to the Genocide Accusation in Her Earlier Interview
In her October 25 interview with the New York Post, Feldshuh said, “To accuse the Jewish people of genocide is wild.”
She invoked Nazi propaganda, arguing that victims were being portrayed as perpetrators. Her wording concerned Jewish people collectively; Brody’s comments concerned Israel’s conduct in Gaza. Feldshuh did not name him in the quoted exchange.
She also said political disagreements seldom arise on set. Asked about navigating those differences, Feldshuh emphasized concentrating on her work and treating colleagues with kindness.
Erin Foster Says She Loves Brody but Disagrees With Him
During the October 27 podcast episode, Foster compared discussions among the show’s colleagues to arguments around family dinner tables. People could debate and hold opposing views while continuing their relationships.
“While I love Adam, I also disagree with him, and that’s OK,” she told Hirsch.
Foster said she understood Jewish viewers who were upset by Brody’s comments. She described the series as a celebration of Judaism, inspired by her own positive experience converting before marrying music executive Simon Tikhman.
She also acknowledged that others were entitled to opinions different from hers. As the show’s creator, she said she could explain her intentions for the series rather than speak for everyone involved.
The third season premiered October 22. All 10 episodes are available on Netflix.