Star Denies Anti-Vaccine Stance Following Narrating Contentious Pandemic Feature
The acclaimed actor has given his narration to a recent film that challenges the legitimacy of vaccinations and commends former cabinet secretary RFK Jr.
The Film's Contentious Origins
Called "Plague of Corruption," the project is based on a popular book co-authored by a controversial scientist, who rose to infamy during the global outbreak for assertions that the virus was a result of a faulty batch of the seasonal immunization.
Her co-author, a producer, has also written books with conspiracy-prone figure Alex Jones. Heckenlively wrote online hailing Neeson's involvement in the film.
A Strong Denial
Representatives for Liam Neeson have provided a statement pushing back against implications that he supports anti-vaccine sentiments.
"We all recognize that unethical practices may occur within the pharmaceutical industry, but that must not be confused with being against vaccines," the statement reads. "Neeson has never been, and cannot be described as, against vaccines. His considerable work with the UN children's agency underscores his enduring support for global immunisation initiatives."
The statement noted that the star was not involved in crafting the project's narrative and that inquiries about its assertions ought to go to the creators.
Central Claims In the Film
In the film, the narration read by Neeson makes several controversial points:
- It suggests that pro-vaccine voices have called for "blind obedience" to health authorities.
- It declares that "science has become dangerously politicized."
- RFK Jr is interviewed saying, "The major issue with vaccines is that they simply are not safely tested."
- The narration takes aim at stay-at-home orders, claiming they caused psychological harm that resulted in thousands of lives.
- Concerning pandemic shots, it references a perspective that they were "developed too quickly" and seen as "risky trials."
Historical Context and Ongoing Debates
It includes a 2004 BBC documentary about HIV drug testing on children, which was subsequently the subject of a BBC apology by the broadcaster for violations of guidelines.
Last month, Kennedy called on the CDC to change its longstanding position that there is no link between immunizations and autism. This supposed link is echoed in the film, contrary to a recent study from the global health body reiterating no connection has been found.
A Past Record of Endorsement
Differing from the film's tone, Neeson has formerly voiced firm endorsement for vaccines in his role as a Unicef global ambassador.
Two years ago, he described vaccines as "an extraordinary triumph," noting that "The discourse about vaccines in recent years has overlooked how much good they have done... It is perhaps one of the biggest collective achievements in history."
The film ends with Neeson's script saying, "This marks not the conclusion of our journey. Rather, it is the start of a new chapter."
