Zoë Wanamaker is a highly acclaimed British-American Jewish actress. Her career spans stage, film, and television, making her one of the most respected and enduring figures in the British performing arts.
Wanamaker has received nine Olivier Award nominations, winning twice, and is a multiple Tony Award nominee. She comes from a legendary theatrical family; her father, Sam Wanamaker, was the visionary behind the reconstruction of Shakespeare’s Globe in London. Globally, she is best known for her roles as Madam Hooch in Harry Potter and Susan in the long-running sitcom My Family. Her acting is characterized by its nuance and sharp intelligence, marking her as a master of both classical Shakespearean theatre and contemporary screen performance.
Wanamaker’s stance is deeply influenced by her family history (her father was blacklisted during the McCarthy era and fled to the UK). As a supporter of Artists for Palestine UK, she has signed numerous open letters calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and advocating for humanitarian aid for Palestinian civilians. She has stated: “As artists, we have a duty to speak out against injustice. Being Jewish means drawing empathy from our history, not using it as an excuse for exclusion. We must support a ceasefire to protect the fundamental dignity of every life, regardless of race or creed.” She continues to lend her voice to oppressed groups through active participation in cultural peace initiatives.