Comedian Michael Rapaport is bringing his Jewish pride to Edmonton: March 6-8

By Stacy Shaikin

(AJNews) – American actor and Comedian Michael Rapaport is bringing his Jewish pride to Edmonton.

The 55-year-old entertainer is famous for his roles in True Romance, Copland, Boston Public and dozens of other titles to his credit, over the course of a 30 plus year career in show business.

Since October 7, the New Yorker and father of two has been very outspoken in support of Israel and Jewish people all over the world. On social media he has been a proud voice in support of Jews in Israel and North America and he visited Israel after the war broke out.

”The stance against Israel is a big thick line in the sand that is unforgivable,” he exclaimed on our zoom meeting on February 20.

“It’s been a very trying time, a very frustrating time,” he continued. “Today with the return of four hostages in coffins, it is a historical, monumental, heartbreaking and unprecedented day. Everyday has been challenging in the last 500 plus days. All I can do is stay close to my family and my community, and when I have an opportunity to perform to the best of my ability as I am in your city.”

Rapaport is coming to Edmonton on March 6, 7 and 8th at Rick Bronsons – The Comic Strip.

“I am going to talk a lot of s**t, about myself, being married, being a father, being divorced, politics, social commentary. I like to engage with the audience. Add some pop culture and everything in between. The gist is where I am at as a 55-year-old man.”

Rapaport’s brother teaches at a university in Halifax, so he is acquainted with Canada and plans to make fun of our current strife as it pertains to US president Donald Trump and his eye towards our country.

When it comes to our similarities, he is very disappointed with the treatment of Jews in both Canada and the US.

“What’s going on in New York is embarrassing, the lack of response from the Governor is unforgivable,” he exclaimed. “It’s a stain on New York, my country and Canada. I see what’s going on in Toronto and Montreal and it is embarrassing.”

Since October 7th Rapaport has been very vocal and expressed his feelings at length.

“I am extremely surprised and frustrated by the lack of understanding and compassion of the history of the situation. People have had more than enough time to educate themselves. I am not worried or concerning myself about those people anymore. The silence has been deafening.”

He continues with his opinion on geopolitics and how it has been reflected.

“The facts are the facts, there are two sides to every story but if you know the reality and history, it’s a long story but a pretty simple story. One has preceded to thrive in unprecedented ways in Israel. In 77 years not one good thing has come out of the Gaza. That’s why they celebrate the most despicable days like Oct 7 or come out in droves when dead bodies are brought out of there like they are going to a circus, a museum or soccer game.”

He maintains he is very satisfied with the federal leadership change in America.

“For me I simplified what was important to me as voter, it was protection of Israel, of Jews and my money,” he says. “A big change for me from Oct. 7, you’re never going to get everything you want, hopefully you get a few things that are important to you.” The actor continues, “I don’t think anyone had it on their bingo card it was going be such a landslide for Trump but thus far I am happy and satisfied. You always want more, but in regards to the antisemitism and the support of Israel I am satisfied and I think a lot of people are.”

The comedian believes we are in crazy times, and it is imperative we stick together.

“Jews are going nowhere; Israel is going nowhere. Be loud and be proud.” He went on, “I like to call it anti Jewishness. Antisemitism and anti-Zionism are part of the same stew, it’s unacceptable.”

Beyond Israel, the Jewish people and American and Canadian differences, we had a chance to talk show business and sports – particularly hockey.

“I think hockey is insane, as soon as the puck drops you can take out your grudges. A bare-knuckle fight. This is f**king far out,” he said.

As for his career, he loves dabbling in front of the camera as much as he does on stage in front of a live audience.

“I love acting, I will always love acting. I started as a comedian first. There is no end to it. As long as you’re living and you have a point of view on life you can do it forever. When you’re on stage alone, you’re the actor, the director and the writer as opposed to just being an actor, you have less to worry about. They are both something I appreciate the opportunity to do.”

He says he is always trying to dig further. Keep himself interested and keep it better and better. He points to some of the great comedians out there as his influences like Jerry Seinfeld and Chris Rock.

Rapid Fire

Larry David or Jerry Seinfeld – Seinfeld

Apple Sauce or Sour Cream on Latkes – Apple Sauce

Favorite Jewish Holiday – Purim in Israel.

Matzah Balls or Kreplach – Matzo Balls

Smoked meat or corned beef. Damn, it depends on who’s smoking the meat or making the corned beef. It depends on who’s making it. It’s an art.

Adam Fox or Jack Hughes – “I don’t know who the f**k they are.” When I told him they were Jewish players in the New York area,  he said, “I like them both. I am coming to Edmonton. Wayne Gretzky, I like Mark Messier…I like Zach Hyman too.”

Stacy Shaikin is a Local Journalism Initiative Reporter