Spanish actor Álvaro Morte calls to “stop genocide”
Note: AI technology was used to generate this article’s audio.
- Spanish actor Álvaro Morte (of "La Casa de Papel") wore a prominent watermelon-shaped pin emblazoned with "Genozidioa Stop" ("Stop Genocide") at the San Sebastian Film Festival.
- The actor's gesture, using the symbol of Palestinian solidarity, aligned with others at the festival, including co-stars and directors who made public pleas for a cease-fire in Gaza.
At the 73rd San Sebastian International Film Festival in September 2025, Spanish actor Álvaro Morte, known for his role in "La Casa de Papel," made a subtle statement by wearing a watermelon-shaped pin emblazoned with "Genozidioa Stop" – Basque for "Stop Genocide."
The portrait, captured during promotional events for the mini-series "Anatomía de un instante" and published recently, highlighted Morte's alignment with broader calls for peace in Gaza amid ongoing ‘Israeli’ assault.
The photos were also posted today on the actor’s official Instagram account.
View this post on Instagram
The watermelon pin has become a global emblem of Palestinian solidarity, its colors mirroring those of the Palestinian flag – red, green, black, and white .
Morte appeared alongside co-stars Eduard Fernández and Manolo Solo for the out-of-competition screening of "Anatomía de un instante," directed by Alberto Rodríguez.
The series, an adaptation of Javier Cercas' book on Spain's 1981 coup attempt, drew parallels to themes of political resistance and justice.
Fernández, who received Spain's National Cinematography Award at the festival, amplified the message by draping a keffiyeh scarf and reading names of young Gaza victims during his acceptance speech, declaring the situation a "barbaric" mirror of global humanity.
The festival itself took a stance, with its management issuing an open letter condemning the genocide in Gaza by ‘Israeli’ forces under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Protesters disrupted the opening red carpet with Palestinian flags, and high-profile figures like producer Esther García and director Pedro Almodóvar delivered impassioned pleas for a ceasefire during award ceremonies.
García, honored with the Donostia Award, wore similar "Stop Genocide" badges in watermelon hues.
