Spotlight has highlighted its commitment to inclusivity and professionalism in the performing arts industry after responding to concerns raised about the wording of a casting advertisement posted on its platform.

The issue related to a casting call placed by Lane Casting for a short film titled Broadcast. UK Lawyers for Israel (UKLFI) wrote to Spotlight expressing concerns about language used in the advert, which they said could cause offence and distress to some members of the industry

The advert contained defamatory and inflammatory content about Israel, implying the government was dishonest, and also referred to an “ongoing genocide” in Gaza.

In its response, Spotlight said the matter had already been identified and addressed following complaints from a number of agents soon after the casting call was published. It was alerted to concerns on the evening of 29 October and contacted Lane Casting the following morning to raise the issue directly

Spotlight explained that discussions with the casting director took place on 31 October, during which the casting director acknowledged the concerns, said there was no intention to offend any community, and expressed regret for any inadvertent offence caused. As a result, the casting breakdown was closed early.

In its letter to UKLFI, Spotlight reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to inclusivity and its opposition to antisemitism and racism “of any kind.” The company also underlined its role as a professional industry platform rather than a regulator, emphasising that it encourages direct communication between casting directors and agents wherever possible.

“Spotlight is proud of our long history in promoting inclusivity and fighting against discrimination in the performing arts industry,” managing director Matt Hood wrote.

A spokesperson for UKLFI commented: “We appreciate Spotlight’s prompt engagement and its clear commitment to maintaining professional and inclusive standards across the industry,” the spokesperson said. “Our concern was always about ensuring that casting notices remain welcoming to all and avoid language that could alienate or distress particular communities. We are pleased that this was addressed constructively.   We hope the episode will encourage continued care in the use of politically sensitive language in industry communications.”