Liev Schreiber might be best known as Hollywood's favorite fixer in "Ray Donovan," but the actor's real-life story runs deep into Jewish history. Born to a Protestant father and Jewish mother in San Francisco, Schreiber's connection to his Jewish heritage comes primarily through his maternal grandfather, who significantly influenced his upbringing.
His mother's family fled pogroms in Ukraine, a history that has taken on new meaning as Schreiber has become one of Hollywood's most vocal supporters of Ukraine during the current war.
Despite early confusion about his religious identity - he spent part of his childhood on a commune with his mother - Schreiber has increasingly embraced his Jewish roots. He played Jewish resistance leader Zus Bielski in "Defiance" (2008), a role that seemed to mark a turning point in his public discussion of his heritage.
Known for his versatility, Schreiber moves easily between Shakespeare and superhero movies, serious drama and voice-over work. He's performed in numerous Jewish-themed productions, lending his distinctive voice to documentaries about Jewish history.
But it was October 7th that really shook him up. Here's what he said about it and his experience as a proud Jew.
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