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American actor John Malkovich has withdrawn from a scheduled performance in Tel Aviv after a promotional text for the show attributed praise for the Israeli public to him that he says he never made, according to Turkish state news agency Anadolu (AA).
The Academy Award-nominated actor canceled his touring comedy show "The Music Critic," which centers on classical music and satirizes renowned composers, in response to the disputed promotional material.
"The quoted statements were never said by me, and I was not consulted before they were published," Malkovich said in a statement.
"I did not say these words and I do not endorse them in any way, nor do they reflect my feelings," Malkovich said. "For that reason, I have decided that I cannot take part in the show in Tel Aviv."
The actor also said he does not stand in "purported solidarity" with any political cause, the killing of innocent people, or any act of terrorism.
The promotional text quoted Malkovich as saying he was excited to return to Israel and looked forward to reuniting with what it described as the warm Israeli public, with whom he said he felt a strong affinity and solidarity.
The text also included a message expressing hope that people in Israel were happy and optimistic, along with a message of love.
Malkovich, known for films including "Dangerous Liaisons," "In the Line of Fire," and "Con Air," has been nominated for two Academy Awards.
The 72-year-old actor is the latest public figure to decline to perform in Israel, citing attacks on Palestinians in Gaza and the occupied West Bank.
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