We need to talk about Cameron Diaz for a hot second. In case you missed it, the actress and her beau–Good Charlotte guitarist Benji Madden–tied the knot on Monday, Jan. 5 at her home in Beverly Hills. The lovebirds had a Jewish wedding ceremony, with all the trappings of a Jewish wedding–including a chuppah and the traditional smashing of the glass. Which is great and all, except for the part where there’s…no confirmation whatsoever that either Diaz or Madden are Jewish.
According to Wikipedia, Madden’s middle name is Levi, which might be indicative of something, but otherwise there’s no connection to be found.
However, fellow actresses Drew Barrymore and Gwyneth Paltrow were in attendance. Both celebs have indicated interest in Kabbalah and/or converting to Judaism.
So we’re positing this: Is it possible the three gal pals may be planning to convert together? We can’t say for sure, but we think that’d be pretty cool.
On the other hand, if Diaz isn’t converting and Madden isn’t secretly an observant Jew, this might be indicative of a not-so-cool Hollywood trend. Having a Jewish wedding because it’s cool or something different without being invested in the faith in some small measure is highly problematic and appropriative of not only Jewish religious customs, but Jewish culture.
Cultural appropriation has been a hot topic of discussion as of late, and it is important to remember that while Jewish beliefs and customs aren’t necessarily in the center of said discussion, they’re still an important part of it.
That being said, mazel tov to Cameron and Benji. We’re waiting with bated breath for some (Jewish?) baby news.
