Jesse Eisenberg, best known for portraying Mark Zuckerberg in The Social Network, has publicly distanced himself from the Meta CEO amid the company’s latest policy changes.
In an interview with BBC Radio 4’s Today program, Eisenberg expressed concerns over Meta’s decision to phase out independent fact-checkers on Facebook and Instagram, calling the move “deeply troubling.”
Eisenberg’s Concerns Over Online Safety
The actor, whose performance in the 2010 David Fincher film earned him an Oscar nomination, shared his apprehensions about the implications of Meta’s policy shifts. “Taking away fact-checking makes people who are already vulnerable even more at risk,” Eisenberg stated, criticizing the company’s approach to content moderation.
Meta recently replaced third-party fact-checking with a “community notes” system, a model similar to X (formerly Twitter). The shift, which allows users to annotate posts with context, has been met with mixed reactions.
While Mark Zuckerberg defends the change as promoting free expression, critics argue it could increase the spread of misinformation.
The Political Context of Meta’s Policy Change
Meta’s decision aligns with recent efforts by Zuckerberg and other tech leaders to mend ties with former U.S. President Donald Trump, who has long criticized fact-checking as biased.
Trump publicly praised the change, further fueling speculation about the growing alignment between tech executives and political figures. Notably, Trump, Elon Musk, and Jeff Bezos attended a high-profile event together last month, raising questions about their influence on digital platforms.
Adding to the controversy, Meta recently settled a lawsuit with Trump, agreeing to pay approximately $25 million over the suspension of his accounts following the January 6 Capitol riots. The settlement underscores the ongoing challenges tech companies face in balancing platform accountability and political pressures.
Eisenberg’s Critique of Billionaire Influence
Beyond Meta’s policies, Eisenberg spoke more broadly about the ethical responsibilities of tech billionaires. “These individuals have amassed billions, yet their choices often prioritize power over social good,” he remarked.
The actor contrasted these priorities with his wife’s work in disability justice, highlighting how social media decisions have real-world consequences.
Eisenberg is currently promoting A Real Pain, a film he wrote, directed, and stars in. Despite his role in The Social Network cementing his connection to Zuckerberg, the actor has made it clear that he does not support the Meta founder’s decisions.
A Call for Greater Accountability
Eisenberg’s remarks reflect a growing unease among public figures regarding the power wielded by major tech companies. As Meta continues to navigate its role in shaping digital discourse, the actor’s comments serve as a reminder of the responsibility that comes with such influence.
While his on-screen portrayal of Zuckerberg remains iconic, his real-life stance is one of critique rather than admiration.
With public concern over misinformation and corporate influence rising, Eisenberg’s words add to the broader conversation about accountability in the tech world. His perspective underscores the importance of ethical leadership in an era where digital platforms play a critical role in shaping public opinion and democracy.
