With antisemitism surging, Israeli influencer and author Hen Mazzig is launching a new online series “And They’re Jewish,” headlined by celebrities including Emmanuelle Chriqui, Debra Messing and Mayim Bialik.
The series, which will air weekly on Mazzig’s YouTube channel beginning April 2, was created in an effort to humanize Jewish people via the personal stories of high-profile participants who explore how they engage with their religion and heritage.
According to data released by the Anti-Defamation League, the number of antisemitic incidents in the U.S. from October 2003 to September 2024 tripled over the same period a year prior. Mazzig, who co-founded the social media-focused Tel Aviv Institute and has become a go-to thought leader among Hollywood’s Jewish community, will debut the first-look teaser of the series at the ADL’s Never is Now Summit’s closing session, where Gal Gadot and trailblazing tennis champ Billie Jean King will be honored.
Mazzig says each 20-minute episode will showcase “the artists, chefs, actors and creators whose work you love, but whose Jewish identity you may not have known.” He adds, “This series isn’t just about visibility; it’s about celebrating the depth, diversity and undeniable impact of Jewish voices in every space.”
“Entourage” star Chriqui says “And They’re Jewish” marks “a crucial cultural project at a time when Jewish voices need to be heard more than ever.” She adds: “Hen has created something truly special — an honest, heartfelt series that showcases the depth, diversity and humanity of Jewish identity. In a time of rising antisemitism, it’s vital to share real stories that challenge stereotypes and remind the world of the richness of Jewish culture and experience.”
The initial “And They’re Jewish” lineup also includes couple Brett Gelman (“Stranger Things”) and singer-songwriter Ari Dayan as well as Broadway star Alexandra Socha and her husband, actor Etai Benson. British artist and photographer Zoe Buckman and NBA executive Rachel Simon round out the series’ debut slate.
ADL CEO Jonathan Greenblatt applauded the series for “bringing to life the stories of those living with hate.”
“And They’re Jewish” is produced by Idel Judanin.
