Actor Denies Anti-Vax Stance After Lending His Voice To Controversial Coronavirus Feature
The "Taken" star has provided his narration to a recent film that casts doubt on the safety of immunizations and praises one-time cabinet secretary RFK Jr.
The Documentary's Disputed Basis
Named "Plague of Corruption," the film is inspired by a well-known publication written by a controversial scientist, who became famous during the pandemic for claims that the illness was linked to a faulty batch of the flu vaccine.
The book's co-author, the executive producer, has also written books with controversial media personality the Infowars host. The producer wrote online celebrating Neeson's role in the project.
A Strong Statement
Representatives for Neeson have released a response pushing back against suggestions that he subscribes to anti-vax sentiments.
"Many recognize that misconduct might be present within the medical sector, but that should never be conflated with opposition to vaccines," the response reads. "Neeson never has been, and cannot be described as, anti-vaccination. His extensive work with the global charity reinforces his consistent support for worldwide vaccination initiatives."
The statement added that the performer had no hand in the documentary's messaging and that concerns about its content are best addressed to the producers.
Central Assertions In the Film
As presented, the narration read by Neeson features several controversial statements:
- It states that pro-immunization voices have demanded "unconditional submission" to government bodies.
- It posits that "research has become highly politicised."
- Kennedy is shown claiming, "The core flaw with vaccines is that they simply are not safely tested."
- It takes aim at pandemic restrictions, claiming they caused mental anguish that resulted in thousands of lives.
- Regarding the immunizations, it mentions a perspective that they were "developed too quickly" and seen as "hazardous tests."
Previous Controversy and Recent Disputes
The documentary further cites a 2004 BBC documentary about HIV drug testing on children, which was later the topic of a BBC apology by the corporation for violations of guidelines.
Last month, the political figure instructed the Centers for Disease Control to revise its official position that there is no connection between immunizations and autism. This claim is repeated in the documentary, despite a fresh analysis from the WHO stating no connection has been found.
An Earlier Record of Support
Standing in contrast to the documentary's narrative, Neeson has formerly expressed firm endorsement for vaccines in his position as a UNICEF goodwill ambassador.
Two years ago, he referred to vaccines as "an incredible human success story," stating that "The discourse about vaccines in lately has lost sight of how much positive impact they have done... It is perhaps one of the biggest shared accomplishments in human history."
"Plague of Corruption" finishes with Neeson's voice proclaiming, "This marks not the conclusion of our narrative. Rather, it is the beginning of a different phase."
