Maureen Lipman Braces for Backlash as Actors Exit London Play Over Israel Stance

Dame Maureen Lipman is girding herself for what could be a contentious night when she takes the stage in London next week. Two actors have abandoned a production of ‘Right Before I Go’ in protest of her publicly stated views on Israel and Palestine, leaving the veteran British actress wrestling with the fallout.

The 80-year-old performer, widely recognized for her role in Roman Polanski’s ‘The Pianist’ and her decades-long stint on ‘Coronation Street’, has admitted the uproar has cost her sleep. But she’s decided to stick with the show after receiving encouragement from director Abigail Morris.

Lipman will perform a single show at London’s Soho Theatre on September 10 World Suicide Prevention Day. The play, penned by Stan Zimmerman, draws from actual suicide notes and aims to spark deeper discussions around suicide and mental health.

“I might get a few boos, but it will be fine,” Lipman said, seemingly resigned to a spirited response from the audience.

The controversy erupted when actor Gerard McCarthy announced his departure, saying he couldn’t in good conscience promote someone whose political positions on Israel and Palestine clash with his own. He was careful to clarify he wasn’t demanding Lipman be removed only that he wouldn’t lend his platform to someone with conflicting views.

Transgender actress Iz Hesketh followed suit, stating that Lipman’s public remarks had become irreconcilable with her personal values.

Lipman has pushed back against McCarthy, expressing disappointment that he didn’t approach her directly. She maintains that performers should be able to work together despite political disagreements.

The actress initially considered stepping down herself to ease tensions within the cast. But a supportive message from Morris changed her mind.

The production’s team has been clear: the play’s mission stands apart from cast members’ personal politics. They’ve pledged to move forward while respecting the diverse viewpoints among collaborators. Playwright Zimmerman added that the show uses a rotating cast anyway, and Lipman was never slated to perform with McCarthy.

Lipman has long been vocal about Israel, antisemitism, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict—stances that have made her a lightning rod for criticism and, occasionally, raised security concerns. She’s faced protests tied to her views and has spoken openly about antisemitism worries in Britain.

Still, Lipman maintains that ‘Right Before I Go’ tackles vital issues deserving open dialogue rather than silence. She suggests a candid conversation with the departing actors might have found common ground.

The play itself remains centered on suicide prevention and mental health. It incorporates genuine suicide notes from celebrities, military veterans, and young people affected by bullying, with post-show discussions featuring cast members, audiences, and mental health professionals.

Lipman’s single appearance on World Suicide Prevention Day underscores the production’s broader purpose. As controversy swirls, the show marches on with its rotating ensemble, with Lipman determined to let the play’s message take center stage.