Gal Gadot, 2026 Genesis Prize Laureate

On November 11, 2025, The Genesis Prize Foundation announced actor and producer Gal Gadot as the 2026 Genesis Prize Laureate.

Following the October 7 Hamas attacks, Gadot was among the first global figures to condemn Hamas’ barbaric attacks and defend Israel. Using her international platform, she called for the release of hostages while also expressing sympathy for the plight of civilians in Gaza affected by the war. Gadot organized private screenings of raw October 7 attack footage for Hollywood leaders – a bold act of conscience when few in the entertainment industry, Jewish or not, dared to speak out in support of Israel.

With her films grossing more than $6 billion worldwide, Gal Gadot has become a global symbol of strength, integrity, and justice. Her portrayal of Wonder Woman made her one of the world’s most recognizable actresses and a cultural ambassador for Israel, admired for her authenticity, grace, and pride in her Jewish identity. In 2018, Gadot was named one of TIME’s 100 most influential people. She is widely celebrated in Israel as a national icon and ambassador.

Gal Gadot, 2026 Genesis Prize Laureate 

“I am humbled to receive the Genesis Prize and to stand alongside the amazing laureates who came before me. I am a proud Jew and a proud Israeli. I love my country and dedicate this award to the organizations who will help Israel heal and to those incredible people who serve on the front lines of compassion. Israel has endured unimaginable pain. Now we must begin to heal – to rebuild hearts, families, and communities.”

Stan Polovets, Co-Founder and Chairman, The Genesis Prize Foundation

“Gal Gadot’s moral clarity and unwavering love for Israel have inspired millions. The award recognizes her bravery and moral courage – her steadfast defense of Israel at great personal and professional risk, her advocacy for the hostages, her compassion for victims of terror, and her empathy for all innocent victims of this terrible war unleashed by Hamas. Her decision to turn the Genesis Prize honor into a mission of healing embodies the very purpose of the Prize – to celebrate achievement and channel it for good.”