Oscar-nominated actor John Malkovich has withdrawn from an April 13, 2027, Tel Aviv performance of "The Music Critic" after a press release attributed to him remarks he said he never made or approved.

Malkovich said a public relations firm hired by the Israeli promoter drafted the quote without consulting him and that its publication as a direct statement from him was "unacceptable and untenable." The planned performance was scheduled for the Charles Bronfman Auditorium, until 2013 called the Fredric R. Mann Auditorium.

Israeli producer Alon Yurick apologized, saying the original release included an incorrect quote because of a misunderstanding. The Jerusalem Post removed the quote from its report.

In the statement announcing his withdrawal, Malkovich said performing in a country does not signal approval of its policies, leaders or actions, nor solidarity with a political cause, terrorism or the killing of civilians. He said he believes "we need more culture and more beauty in more places, not less," describing artistic freedom as a means of bridging conflict.

The show was created and conceived by violinist and composer Aleksey Igudesman.