Jesse Eisenberg, best known for his portrayal of Meta chief executive Mark Zuckerberg in the acclaimed 2010 film The Social Network, has expressed his desire to disassociate himself from Zuckerberg. In a recent interview with BBC News, Eisenberg stated he no longer wants to be linked with "someone like" Zuckerberg. These remarks come as Eisenberg promotes his latest project, A Real Pain, a comedy-drama he wrote, directed, and stars in.
A Real Pain tells the story of two cousins who travel to Poland to visit Holocaust sites in honor of their late grandmother. The character of the grandmother is inspired by Eisenberg's real-life Aunt Doris. Filmed in the home where his family once lived in Poland, the movie has received critical acclaim. Both Eisenberg and his co-star Kieran Culkin have earned Oscar nominations for their performances, adding to Eisenberg's previous nomination for his role in The Social Network.
Eisenberg's desire to distance himself from Zuckerberg coincides with recent controversies surrounding Meta. The company faced backlash after announcing its decision to replace independent fact-checkers on Facebook and Instagram with X-style "community notes." This move was criticized by many, including Eisenberg, who commented on Meta's actions.
"It's like this guy is… doing things that are problematic, taking away fact-checking" – Jesse Eisenberg
Eisenberg further elaborated on his concerns about Meta's motivations.
"Oh, they're doing it to curry favour with somebody who's preaching hate" – Jesse Eisenberg
These statements reflect the broader context of Meta's legal and political challenges. Former President Donald Trump had previously sued Meta and Zuckerberg following the suspension of his accounts after the January 6 Capitol riots. Recently, Trump expressed approval of Meta's decision to remove fact-checking, stating that the company had "come a long way." As part of a legal settlement, Meta will pay approximately $25 million (£20 million).
Eisenberg, known for his thoughtful perspectives, also shared his personal reflections on the matter.
"That's what I think… not as like a person who played in a movie. I think of it as somebody who is married to a woman who teaches disability justice in New York and lives for her students are going to get a little harder this year" – Jesse Eisenberg
In addition to discussing Meta's controversies, Eisenberg highlighted the themes explored in A Real Pain. He emphasized the importance of remembering history and honoring those who survived past atrocities.
"Grandchildren of Holocaust survivors should wake up every morning and go outside and kiss the ground that they're alive and thank whatever god they pray to – as the world didn't want them to be alive" – Jesse Eisenberg
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