Cohen Says Ironheart Team Addressed Mephisto’s Antisemitic History

Sacha Baron Cohen said the creative team behind Marvel’s Ironheart acknowledged the historical association of Jewish people with the devil when offering him the role of Mephisto, and asked whether he was comfortable playing the character. Cohen said he welcomed the consideration and agreed to take the part. He recounted the conversation during a live recording of the Happy Sad Confused podcast at New York’s 92nd Street Y. Cohen said the producing and directing team was almost entirely Black and described its approach as considerate and empathetic. He said the exchange made him feel seen, adding that Jewish people can sometimes feel others do not empathize with their suffering. Mephisto is a demonic villain in Marvel’s stories, inspired by the figure Mephistopheles and known for making manipulative bargains. The historical association between Jewish people and the devil has appeared in antisemitic stereotypes. Cohen’s account of the casting discussion is the basis for the reported details; no independent account from the production team or Marvel confirming the conversation was included. Cohen said he was not insulted by the offer. His remarks focused on the team’s recognition...