Ben & Jerry’s co-founder Ben Cohen has publicly called on Bollywood actor Kareena Kapoor Khan to reconsider her association with Magnum. Cohen urged Kapoor to use her public platform to support Palestinians amid the ongoing war in Gaza. He addressed the actor in a post on a private post on August 21.
The businessman has frequently criticised Israel’s military actions in Gaza. His latest comments also referenced Kapoor’s previous statements concerning violence against Palestinian children.
Cohen Questions Kapoor’s Magnum Association
Cohen highlighted Kapoor’s long-running relationship with Magnum in his post. He also pointed to her earlier public comments condemning violence against Palestinian children.
He encouraged the actor to reconsider her association with the ice-cream brand. According to Cohen, public figures can use their influence to raise awareness about humanitarian issues.
Cohen also claimed that Unilever had attempted to suppress criticism directed at the Israeli government. However, the claim forms part of a broader dispute involving the company and Ben & Jerry’s.
His comments therefore connect Kapoor’s brand association with a wider debate surrounding corporate responsibility and activism.
Dispute Over Ben & Jerry’s Corporate Independence
The controversy also stems from disagreements over Ben & Jerry’s social activism policies.
The ice-cream brand separated from Unilever’s ice-cream business in 2025. Magnum Ice Cream Company now owns the brand.
However, disagreements over Ben & Jerry’s social mission have continued. Ben & Jerry’s and members of its independent board previously accused Unilever of interfering with the company’s activism.
Unilever has disputed those allegations. The dispute later moved into the courts.
On August 21, a US judge dismissed several claims in the lawsuit. The ruling also established Magnum as the primary defendant going forward rather than Unilever.
Cohen Calls for Support for Ben & Jerry’s
Following the court developments, Cohen encouraged Kapoor to support efforts protecting Ben & Jerry’s independence.
He also asked his followers to bring the issue to her attention online. His campaign included hashtags such as #BoycottMagnum and #FreeBenAndJerrys.
Cohen has remained outspoken about the war in Gaza and the role of corporations in international issues. He has expressed his views through social media activity and public protests. His latest remarks involving Kapoor have now brought her brand partnership into the broader discussion.
The situation highlights the growing scrutiny celebrities can face over commercial partnerships. It also shows how brand endorsements can become connected with debates about corporate policies and international conflicts.
For Kapoor, Cohen’s public appeal adds another layer to the discussion surrounding her association with Magnum. However, the actor’s response to his comments has not been publicly reported.
