Hugh Laurie has hit back after facing backlash for a tribute to late Israeli producer Dana Eden.
The creator and producer behind TV thriller Tehran, has died aged 52 while filming the new season.
She was found dead in a hotel room in Athens, Greece, by her brother after failing to respond to his messages.
Night Manager star Laurie, 66, posted his condolences on X, saying Eden’s death was ‘a terrible thing’ and described her as ‘brilliant, funny, and an exceptional leader.’
However, the tribute turned into a debate, with the actor, who starred in season 3 of Tehran and will appear in the upcoming season, being accused of being a Zionist.
Hitting back, the House actor wrote: ‘Nothing I have ever said or done could lead a sane person to believe that I am a Zionist. However.
‘If someone exults in the death of a friend of mine, yes, I will block them. If you wouldn’t do the same in my position, you can f*** off too.’
EastEnders star Tracey Anne-Oberman was among those to criticise Laurie, responding: ‘What do you think being a “zionist” is, Hugh? You don’t have to pass a political purity test on this.’
Responding to the backlash Laurie wrote: ‘God almighty, why does no one understand English anymore?
‘I have not spoken or written a word that would indicate pro or anti Zionism. That’s what those words mean. Blimey.’
Local authorities are investigating Eden’s cause of death, with an autopsy expected, but local outlets claim there is currently not thought to have been foul play.
A tribute was shared by Tehran’s production company Dana & Shula Productions, which Eden co-owned, saying they were ‘shocked’ by the loss.
‘We are shocked and saddened by the untimely passing of our beloved friend and partner,’ the statement said. ‘Dana was a gifted creator with an international reputation.’
Police officials in Greece have stated that Eden’s death is being treated as suicide based on evidence and testimonies while a probe is underway, Reuters reported.
Tehran earned an Emmy Award in 2021 for best drama series, with Glenn Close and Hugh Laurie joining the cast for seasons two and three, respectively.
The Israeli spy thriller, which aired its third season on Apple TV Plus last month, was being filmed in Greece at the time of Eden’s death after being renewed for a fourth season.
The series follows a young Mossad agent who assumes a fake identity to infiltrate Iran’s nuclear reactor but becomes trapped in her false life.
The Israel Broadcasting Corporation said it was ‘saddened’ to learn of Eden’s death in a translated tribute.
Need support?
For emotional support, you can call the Samaritans 24-hour helpline on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org, visit a Samaritans branch in person or go to the Samaritans website.
Their HOPELINE247 is open every day of the year, 24 hours a day. You can call 0800 068 4141, text 88247 or email: pat@papyrus-uk.org.
‘Dana was among the senior figures in the Israeli television industry and was a central figure in the creation and leadership of some of the corporation’s most prominent and influential productions,’ the company said.
‘The fourth season of the series is currently being filmed in Greece – a complex and significant production, which Dana came to closely monitor.
‘Her professional work, uncompromising commitment and love of creation have left a deep mark on the Israeli Broadcasting Corporation. Here we share in the heavy mourning of her family, friends and colleagues, and embrace her dear partner, our friend Shula Spiegel.’
Got a story?
If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.
