Miriam Margolyes is a highly acclaimed British-Australian character actress and voice artist. Born in Oxford to a Jewish family with roots in Belarus and Poland, she is widely regarded as a “national treasure” for her outspoken, witty, and eccentric personality. Her Jewish identity is a cultural and moral cornerstone for her; she often remarks that this heritage instilled in her a natural empathy for the marginalized and a sharp sensitivity to social injustice.
In a career spanning over sixty years, Margolyes has portrayed numerous iconic roles. She won a BAFTA Award for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in Martin Scorsese’s “The Age of Innocence.” Global audiences recognize her best as Professor Sprout in the “Harry Potter” film series. Beyond film, she has excelled on stage (particularly in her one-woman Dickens shows) and in series like “Call the Midwife” and “Blackadder.” In 2001, she was appointed an OBE for her services to drama.
Margolyes is one of the bravest voices in the entertainment industry advocating for Palestinian rights. As a long-time supporter of Jews for Justice for Palestinians (JfJfP), she has frequently criticized the policies of the Israeli government, describing them as a betrayal of Jewish ethical values. During recent conflicts, she has used her public platform to call for a ceasefire, stating bluntly, “As a Jew, I have to condemn this inhumanity.” She steadfastly maintains the distinction between antisemitism and criticism of Israeli state policy, insisting that true Jewish spirit must include defending the dignity and right to exist of the Palestinian people.