Brandt Joel, a prominent agent at WME known for representing high-profile clients like Jason Momoa and Matthew McConaughey, has found himself at the center of a significant controversy following a provocative message he sent in a WhatsApp group chat. The message, which was later deleted, has sparked intense criticism and raised questions about the appropriateness of his conduct during a sensitive time.
The Controversial Message
The incident occurred in an unofficial WME group chat on WhatsApp, where members were discussing the recent killing of six Israeli hostages by Hamas militants in Gaza. The conversation, which included WME employees, was sparked by the sharing of President Joe Biden's official statement on the tragedy. As emotions ran high, WME's Nancy Josephson and Katie Slater expressed their sorrow over the news. In response, Brandt Joel sent a message saying, “Screw the left kill all.”
This comment, which was captured in screenshots obtained by The Hollywood Reporter, was quickly deleted by Joel, but not before it had been seen by several members of the chat. The message has since ignited a firestorm within the company, as employees and outsiders alike grapple with the implications of such a statement from a senior partner at one of Hollywood's leading talent agencies.
A History of Divisive Remarks
This isn't the first time Joel has made controversial statements in the group chat. According to sources, he has previously criticized WME for being “weak” in its response to clients who have spoken out about the conflict in Gaza. In one message, Joel expressed frustration that the agency had not taken stronger actions against clients whose views he deemed unacceptable. “We have been weak,” he wrote, though it remains unclear which clients he was specifically referring to.
Joel's military background, including service in the U.S. Navy and time spent in Iraq, may partly explain the intensity of his views on the conflict. However, his comments have drawn significant backlash, both within WME and beyond, as they are seen as contributing to an already volatile and polarized atmosphere.
Hollywood's Increasingly Tense Environment
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has created a charged environment in Hollywood, with many industry figures facing criticism for their public statements. This incident comes on the heels of other high-profile controversies, such as the backlash against CAA agent Maha Dakhil, who was forced to step down from several roles within the agency after posting comments about the conflict on social media. Similarly, actress Melissa Barrera was dropped from Scream VII due to her outspoken views on the situation in Gaza, though she later stated that she felt supported by her representatives during the ordeal.
These incidents reflect the broader tensions in Hollywood as the industry navigates the complex and highly sensitive issues surrounding the conflict. With emotions running high and opinions sharply divided, public figures and industry professionals are increasingly finding themselves under scrutiny for their comments and actions.
The Fallout
As of now, it remains unclear what the long-term consequences will be for Brandt Joel. The incident has certainly cast a shadow over his career and may lead to further repercussions within WME. The agency, like many others in Hollywood, is likely to be closely monitoring the situation as it continues to unfold.
In the meantime, the controversy surrounding Joel's message serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing Hollywood as it grapples with deeply divisive issues. As the industry seeks to balance free expression with the need for sensitivity and respect, incidents like this highlight the fine line that must be walked by those in positions of influence.
