Javier Bardem Backed a Petition Targeting Pink—but “Trying to Cancel Her” Is an Interpretation, Not a Neutral Fact
A viral New York Post graphic claims that actor Javier Bardem was “torched” for trying to cancel singer Pink following the controversy involving rapper Macklemore.
The story is based on a real action.
Bardem shared an online petition calling for Pink to be removed from her position as a UNICEF ambassador. The petition emerged after Pink criticized Macklemore’s pro-Palestinian comments during an appearance connected with Ed Sheeran’s tour.
What requires qualification is the headline’s language.
“Trying to cancel Pink” is a characterization of Bardem’s action. “Torched” is tabloid language describing criticism he received. Neither expression is a neutral description of a verifiable event.
The most accurate verdict is:
Javier Bardem did promote a petition seeking Pink’s removal as a UNICEF ambassador. Whether that constitutes “canceling” her is an opinion rather than an independently verifiable fact.
How the Dispute Began
Macklemore appeared as a supporting performer on Ed Sheeran’s American tour.
During a September 4 concert at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, Macklemore expressed support for Palestinians and said “Free Palestine.” His performance and accompanying remarks drew both applause and intense criticism.
Macklemore has publicly supported Palestinian causes for years. His 2024 song “Hind’s Hall” referenced pro-Palestinian student demonstrations and the death of Palestinian child Hind Rajab.
Critics have also pointed to previous controversies, including a 2014 performance in which Macklemore wore a costume that some viewers considered an antisemitic caricature. Macklemore apologized at the time and denied intending to imitate Jewish stereotypes.
The history meant that his 2026 remarks were interpreted through an already polarized political context.
Pink’s Response
Pink shared or amplified criticism of Macklemore’s performance.
As a Jewish artist and UNICEF ambassador, she said that her response was connected to concerns about antisemitism, terrorism and the safety of Jewish people.
Her initial reaction was widely understood as supporting criticism of Macklemore and calls for consequences following his speech.
Pink later issued a broader clarification. She condemned Hamas, defended the right of Jewish people to live safely and also acknowledged that Palestinians deserve dignity, safety and a peaceful future.
Her clarification did not satisfy everyone.
Supporters viewed it as an effort to affirm the humanity of both Israelis and Palestinians. Critics accused her of helping suppress an artist who had spoken about Palestinian suffering.