On the evening of November 12, 2024, the Jewish Institute of Television & Cinema (JITC) Hollywood Bureau hosted its highly anticipated second annual Jewish Media Awards. Held at the iconic Alice Tully Hall in Lincoln Center, the event was a powerful testament to the growing recognition of Jewish voices in Hollywood. A sold-out crowd gathered to honor trailblazing figures in entertainment, media, and beyond, all while celebrating the cultural richness and authenticity of Jewish stories.
Billed as “The Greatest Night in Jewish Representation,” the event seamlessly blended Hollywood glamour with the deep cultural significance of Jewish heritage. The evening brought together a diverse audience: industry insiders, cultural leaders, Orthodox Jews, and Hollywood’s elite, all united by the shared mission of elevating Jewish narratives in mainstream media.
JITC Hollywood Bureau: A Visionary Mission
In 2021, the JITC Hollywood Bureau emerged with a mission to tell Jewish stories with accuracy, dignity, and pride. Drawing inspiration from other influential organizations such as the NAACP Image Awards and GLAAD Media Awards, JITC is committed to combating stereotypes, amplifying positive Jewish representation, and showcasing the invaluable contributions of Jewish culture to global media.
Allison Josephs, the dynamic founder and Executive Director of JITC, opened the evening with a heartfelt and impassioned speech. Reflecting on the challenges of the past years—including a surge in antisemitism and the recent heartbreak over hostages taken by Hamas—Josephs underscored the urgency of JITC’s mission. “The world has changed,” she said, “but our resolve to amplify positive Jewish stories remains unshakeable.”
Josephs’ journey began in 2005 with her groundbreaking YouTube series, “Jew in the City,” which set the stage for her ongoing crusade to improve Jewish representation. Inspired by the success of advocacy efforts from other minority groups in Hollywood, she saw a gap for Jewish voices and was determined to fill it. With the creation of the Hollywood Bureau, Josephs has transformed her vision into a movement that celebrates Jewish culture on a grand scale.
Honoring Excellence: The Award Recipients
The Jewish Media Awards recognized luminaries across multiple fields, honoring those who have made significant strides in promoting authentic Jewish storytelling. The awards were presented in three distinguished categories: the All-Star Award, the Lion of Israel Award, and the Keter Shem Tov Award.
All-Star Awards Honorees:
- Jeff Astrof, Friends Writer and Producer
Known for his work on Friends, The New Adventures of Old Christine, and Trial & Error, Jeff Astrof has used his comedic genius to bring Jewish culture into mainstream entertainment. In his acceptance speech, he humorously called for Hollywood to “make it Jewish again,” underscoring the importance of embracing authentic Jewish narratives.
- Mitchell Silk, Former U.S. Department of the Treasury Official
The first Orthodox Jew to serve as Assistant Secretary for International Markets, Silk’s trailblazing career in government and law is a testament to the power of merging professional excellence with faith. His acceptance speech highlighted the impact of Jewish values on leadership and public service. - Shifra Kolsky, Chief Accounting Officer, Discover
Kolsky has broken barriers in the finance world while championing diversity and inclusion. She has been an advocate for Jewish professionals, using her platform to mentor young Jewish women in the industry, inspiring them to embrace both their careers and their cultural identity. - Ari Sacher, Defense Engineer and Iron Dome Developer
As a key developer behind Israel’s Iron Dome missile defense system, Sacher’s technological innovations have saved countless lives. His work embodies the intersection of faith, technology, and a commitment to protecting lives, making him a modern-day hero in both the Jewish and global communities. - Sharon Mazel, Bestselling Co-Author of What to Expect When You’re Expecting
Mazel’s renowned guidebook has helped millions of families navigate pregnancy and parenting. Her work, deeply rooted in Jewish values, highlights the significance of family, education, and community, making her an influential figure in both Jewish and mainstream parenting circles.
Keter Shem Tov Award Winners: Innovators in Jewish Media Projects
This prestigious award celebrated projects that have significantly elevated Jewish representation, each leaving an indelible mark on audiences worldwide.
- Netflix’s Fauda – Accepted by Actor Doron Ben David
The internationally acclaimed series Fauda offers a gripping, nuanced portrayal of the Israeli Palestinian conflict, challenging simplistic stereotypes. Doron Ben David accepted the award, emphasizing the show’s commitment to humanizing both sides while reflecting the complexities of Israeli society. - Jewish Matchmaking – Accepted by Aleeza Ben Shalom and Producer Ronit Tarshish Polin
This heartfelt Netflix series, featuring Aleeza Ben Shalom, has captivated audiences with its exploration of Jewish traditions and modern dating. The show’s portrayal of Jewish singles navigating love while honoring their faith resonated with viewers around the globe, breaking stereotypes in the process. - David Baddiel’s Jews Don’t Count – Accepted by Michael Rapaport
Based on his provocative book, Baddiel’s documentary confronts antisemitism and challenges the double standards applied to Jews within social justice movements. Michael Rapaport, presenting the award, applauded Baddiel’s courage in tackling sensitive issues head-on. - FX’s The Patient – Starring Steve Carell
This psychological thriller, starring Steve Carell as Dr. Alan Strauss, explores deep themes of identity, trauma, and redemption through a Jewish lens. The series artfully integrates Jewish elements, bringing much-needed visibility to Jewish culture in mainstream narratives. - Amazon’s Destination NBA: A G League Odyssey Featuring Ryan Turell
The inspiring journey of Ryan Turell, the first Orthodox Jewish basketball player in the NBA G League, is beautifully captured in this Amazon Prime documentary. It showcases Turell’s determination to excel in sports while adhering to his religious commitments, highlighting the triumphs and challenges of balancing faith and ambition. - Sheryl Sandberg’s Screams Before Silence
Directed by former Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg, this short film offers a raw portrayal of the tragic events of October 7, when innocent lives were lost in a Hamas attack on Israel. Sandberg’s powerful storytelling captures the grief and resilience of the Jewish people, making it a deeply moving tribute.
A Night of Unity and Reflection
The emotional high point of the evening came with a stirring musical performance by singer Aaron Holder, who dedicated his set to the memory of those lost in recent conflicts and the hostages still held captive. The performance was a poignant reminder of the strength and unity of the Jewish people, even in times of adversity.
The event concluded with a lavish afterparty, featuring exquisite kosher cuisine catered by Genadeen Caterers, fine wines from Royal Wine Corp, and decadent desserts by Baked by the Dozen. Guests mingled late into the night, celebrating not just the achievements of the honorees but also the enduring vibrancy of Jewish culture.
Looking Forward: A Brighter Future for Jewish Representation and A Heartfelt Tribute to Allison Josephs
As the night ended, it became clear that the Jewish Media Awards are not merely an event but a catalyst for change. In a world where representation often falls short and stereotypes persist, the evening was a resounding testament to the power of storytelling in shaping perceptions. The event was not just about honoring past achievements but also about inspiring a future where Jewish voices are heard, valued, and celebrated on the global stage.
At the heart of this transformative initiative stands Allison Josephs, a relentless advocate for Jewish visibility and cultural authenticity. Her unwavering dedication over nearly two decades has empowered countless Jewish creators and challenged Hollywood to move beyond clichés and superficial portrayals. Starting with a single YouTube channel in 2005, Josephs built a platform that has grown into a movement, culminating in the founding of the JITC Hollywood Bureau in 2021.
Her visionary work goes beyond simply acknowledging Jewish contributions; it is about reclaiming Jewish identity and ensuring that future generations can see themselves reflected in the stories on screen. Josephs has not only elevated Jewish narratives but has also created a space for nuanced, authentic depictions of Jewish life that break down barriers and foster understanding.
In her closing remarks, Josephs spoke with a mix of pride and urgency: “May we, the Jewish people, continue to be a light unto the nations. May our soldiers and Jews around the world be safe. And may our hostages be brought home soon.” These words resonated deeply with the audience, embodying the spirit of resilience and hope that has driven her mission.
The Jewish Media Awards, under Josephs’ passionate leadership, have already made an indelible impact. By amplifying Jewish voices in the entertainment industry, she is ensuring that Jewish culture is not just preserved but celebrated with dignity and pride. As the awards grow in prestige and influence, they serve as a powerful reminder that through storytelling, change is possible—and that Jewish narratives are vital threads in the rich tapestry of global culture.
With her unwavering commitment, Allison Josephs is not just changing Hollywood; she’s changing the world. The future of Jewish representation in media is brighter, thanks to her tireless advocacy and her belief that Jewish stories, like all great stories, deserve to be told with depth, respect, and authenticity.
Bravo, Allison Josephs— your passion, perseverance, and dedication have left an indelible mark on Hollywood and the Jewish community.
Meyer Harroch, New York Jewish Travel Guide
