Gal Gadot paid tribute to Ynon Kreiz, the newly appointed co-CEO of Skydance, during the Simon Wiesenthal Center’s Humanitarian Award Dinner. Speaking at the November 11 event held at the Beverly Wilshire, the actor described Kreiz as a trusted leader who provides a sense of stability and hope in the face of growing global antisemitism.
Gadot addressed the audience with visible emotion, noting her concern over the speed and openness with which hatred toward Jews is being expressed and accepted. She referenced the events of October 7 and the subsequent war as catalysts for her questions about the limits of this trend. The actress worried that if people become accustomed to seeing and hearing hatred without reaction, the consequences could be profound.
In her remarks, Gadot highlighted Kreiz’s consistent stance against the prejudice. She stated that his refusal to waver, combined with his deep empathy for his community and intense conviction, serves as a guiding light. For Gadot, this kind of leadership acts as a ray of courage during what she described as a dark hour.
Kreiz, who previously served as the chief executive of Mattel for eight years, was named co-CEO of Skydance in late September. The role follows the merger of Warner Bros. and Paramount. In this capacity, he oversees the day-to-day operations and the integration of the combined businesses, while David Ellison, the chairman and CEO, leads the company’s strategy, creative, and technology functions.
Later in the evening, Kreiz echoed the themes raised by Gadot. He emphasized that while there may be disagreements with the policies of the Israeli government, these political differences should not serve as an excuse for the hatred of Jewish people. He also expressed gratitude to Ellison for his strong support of Israel and the Jewish people, calling for the bond between the United States and Israel to remain unshakable.
David Ellison spoke earlier in the program, describing it as a privilege to work alongside Kreiz as they navigate the new direction of Skydance. Ellison praised his co-CEO as a practical leader who actively engages in the work rather than delegating the difficult tasks. He described Kreiz as someone who lives by his beliefs, acts decisively, and is deeply committed to his community and values.
Jeffrey Katzenberg, the co-founder of DreamWorks, also offered high praise for Kreiz. Katzenberg noted that overseeing Skydance represents the most significant job of Kreiz’s career. He expressed strong confidence that the company will succeed in revitalizing the film industry, stating that the new leadership team possesses both the necessary expertise and the character required to guide Hollywood through this important period.
As the night’s honoree, Kreiz delivered the final address. He thanked Ellison for bringing him into a role that focuses on creativity and technology. Kreiz outlined the guiding principles he intends to implement at Skydance, emphasizing that business leadership carries a moral obligation. He stated that the company will prioritize the people it serves, respect diverse perspectives, and rely on truth and facts. His goal is to use the company’s influence to entertain, inform, and inspire the world through exceptional storytelling, helping people imagine a better future.
The Simon Wiesenthal Center is a human rights organization dedicated to combating antisemitism and promoting tolerance. The Humanitarian Award is the organization’s highest honor. In addition to Kreiz, the Wednesday gala featured other distinguished recipients. Elica Le Bon received the Medal of Valor, while Bianna Golodryga was awarded the Jewish Heritage Award.
