Celebrities Unite with Holocaust Survivors

At a time when Holocaust knowledge is rapidly diminishing – with 20% of people worldwide having never heard of the Holocaust, less than half recognizing its historical accuracy, and over 60% not knowing that six million Jews were murdered – ”Borrowed Spotlight,” a new portrait series book and exhibition in New York City, aspires to be both an educational tool and a call to action.

Martha Hunt & Helga Noveck

Shot by fashion photographer Bryce Thompson, the riveting collab pairs Holocaust survivors with celebrities, and hopes to amplify their powerful testimonies. Chelsea Handler, Jennifer Garner, Jenna Dewan, Wolf Blitzer, Barbara Corcoran, Scooter Braun, George Stephanopoulos and David Schwimmer are among the many celebrities who have participated.

“This project was born from a sense of urgency,” Thompson told Aish.com. “I was witnessing rising antisemitism, denial, and misinformation about the Holocaust. I began connecting Holocaust survivors with some of the most recognizable faces in media, fashion and entertainment asking: what happens when we borrow that spotlight for something bigger than ourselves?”

These were some of the most emotional moments of his career.

Julius Irving & Hershel Greenblatt

“It wasn’t just about taking photos, it was about building trust. Watching these survivors connect with public figures – who came in with deep respect and open hearts – was incredibly powerful,” Thompson noted.

“Each portrait carries the weight of a story, and I wanted the photos to feel like that story is still alive.”

Having seen antisemitism firsthand, he knows that “silence is dangerous.”

Jennifer Garner & Gabriella Karin

“We’re seeing hate resurface in ways that are shocking – but not new. This project is a response to that. It’s a way of saying: we remember, we see you, and we will not let history be erased.”

Thompson was surprised by the number of celebrities who didn’t want to address antisemitism publicly.

“They were privately supportive but were scared to post or be outspoken about something that shouldn’t be controversial – remembering the stories of Holocaust survivors. It really underscored why this project is so important.”

Josh Peck & Eva Nathanson

The coffee table book features a foreword by Cindy Crawford, a global supermodel and businesswoman, who has long used her platform to advocate for children’s health and education.

“When I was asked to participate in this book, it was an instant yes. I’ve always believed in being part of the solution, not the problem,” said Crawford, who is married to Jewish businessman Rande Gerber.

“The opportunity to meet and converse with a Holocaust survivor felt deeply meaningful.”

Nicola Peltz & Dr. Erica Miller

The portraits debuted at a public exhibition at the Detour Gallery ahead of Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day). The exhibit features large-scale portraits, survivor testimonies, and interactive elements designed to inspire reflection and discussion.

Many of the celebrities were deeply moved from the experience.

“It is not every day you get to do a photoshoot with a 107-year old Holocaust survivor,” said Dewan, via an Instagram post. “But through the @borrowedspotlight project, I was lucky enough to spend time with, and help to amplify the story of, the beautiful Risa Igelfeld.”

Jenna Dewan & Risa Igelfeld

She continued: “Risa escaped horrific sexual violence from the Nazis who were rounding up local Jewish girls like her. Although she lost so much, she exudes positivity and her message is all love.”

Dewan was inspired by Igelfield’s words: “‘I never allow negative thoughts to enter my brain,’ she said. If only we could all embrace Risa’s spirit – even at 107, sharing a moment and dancing with her was a moment I will forever cherish.”

Survivor Tova Friedman shared her incredible survival story with “Shark Tank’s” Corcoran.

Sheryl Sandberg & George Elbaum

“At just six years old in 1944, Tova was sent to a malfunctioning gas chamber in Auschwitz and miraculously survived,” Corcoran wrote on her social media. “She has since dedicated her life to educating others through her writing and lectures. Tova’s story is an inspiring lesson in resilience and hope, and I’m so glad to have met her.”

Proceeds from the book sales will support continued campaigns to educate younger generations about the Holocaust. A private auction of select prints will benefit Selfhelp, which provides services and assistance to living Holocaust survivors in New York, and the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum.

All photos by Bryce Thompson

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