Actor Alec Baldwin, known for his liberal political views and infamous legal troubles, was caught on camera physically assaulting an anti-Israel agitator inside a New York coffee shop on Monday.
The altercation began when the woman, known for her ambush-style interviews, approached Baldwin and repeatedly demanded he say “Free Palestine” and speak out against Israel’s recent actions.
Despite Baldwin’s noticeable discomfort and attempts to ignore her, the agitator continued to harass him, even bringing up his involvement in a recent shooting that resulted in the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. The woman taunted Baldwin, asking why he killed Hutchins and received no jail time, clearly attempting to provoke a reaction from the actor.
However, things took a turn when the agitator disgracefully referenced Baldwin’s ongoing criminal case, in which he has been charged with involuntary manslaughter. Seemingly fed up with the woman’s persistence and tasteless comments, Baldwin finally took matters into his own hands and smacked her phone.
While some may argue that Baldwin’s actions were uncalled for, the agitator’s behavior was clearly unacceptable. Baldwin has the right to politely decline any political statements he does not wish to make. The agitator’s disrespectful and aggressive behavior is exactly what gives peaceful protest a bad name.
NEW: Pro-Palestine protester harasses actor Alec Baldwin and demands that he say ‘Free Palestine’ or else she will keep harassing him.
“Alec, can you please stay free Palestine one time? Why did you kill that lady? You killed that lady and got no jail time.”
“Free Palestine… pic.twitter.com/3ULPTx5ojR
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) April 23, 2024
Unfortunately, this is not the first time Baldwin has found himself at the center of controversy.
His liberal activism and outspoken nature have often landed him in hot water. From his infamous impersonation of former President Donald Trump on “Saturday Night Live” to his involvement in multiple legal battles, Baldwin is no stranger to controversy.
No matter what one’s political beliefs may be, it is never acceptable to harass and provoke someone in such a manner. Baldwin may have physically reacted to the situation, but the agitator instigated it with her rude and aggressive behavior.
