The Genesis Prize Foundation announced Tuesday evening that this year's Genesis Prize—often referred to as the "Jewish Nobel"—will be awarded to Israeli Hollywood actress and producer Gal Gadot.
The annual prize honors extraordinary individuals for their professional excellence, significant contributions in their fields and commitment to Jewish values.
“I am humbled to receive the Genesis Prize and to stand alongside the amazing laureates who came before me,” said Gadot. “I am a proud Jew and a proud Israeli. I love my country and dedicate this award to the organizations that will help Israel heal and to those incredible people who serve on the front lines of compassion. Israel has endured unimaginable pain. Now we must begin to heal, to rebuild hearts, families and communities.”
Genesis Prize Foundation co-founder and chairman Stan Polovets praised Gadot’s moral courage and steadfast public support for Israel. “Gal Gadot’s moral clarity and unwavering love for Israel have inspired millions,” Polovets said.
“The award recognizes her bravery and moral courage – her steadfast defense of Israel at great personal and professional risk, her advocacy for the hostages, her compassion for victims of terror and her empathy for all innocent victims of this terrible war unleashed by Hamas. Her decision to turn the Genesis Prize honor into a mission of healing embodies the very purpose of the Prize – to celebrate achievement and channel it for good.”
Gal Gadot talks about the effects of October 7 with President Isaac Herzog
The foundation noted that Gadot was one of the first major global voices to condemn Hamas’ atrocities and publicly support Israel at the outbreak of the war. She also organized private screenings of raw footage from the October 7 attack for world leaders, influencers and top Hollywood executives.
Previous recipients of the Genesis Prize include U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, former New York City mayor and philanthropist Michael Bloomberg, actress Barbra Streisand and filmmaker Steven Spielberg. Last year’s prize went to Argentine President Javier Milei.
Each laureate selects a philanthropic cause with personal significance to receive the $1 million prize.