Actor Denies Anti-Vaxxer Position Following Lending His Voice To Contentious Covid Documentary
The "Taken" star has given his narration to a new documentary that casts doubt on the efficacy of vaccines and praises former cabinet secretary RFK Jr.
The Film's Contentious Origins
Called "Plague of Corruption," the film is based on a well-known publication co-authored by a controversial scientist, who became famous during the global outbreak for assertions that the illness was a result of a problematic version of the influenza shot.
Her writing partner, a producer, has penned books with far-right figure the Infowars host. Heckenlively recently posted celebrating Neeson's role in the film.
An Unequivocal Denial
A spokesperson for Liam Neeson have released a statement pushing back against claims that he supports anti-vaccine sentiments.
"We all recognize that corruption may occur within the drug industry, but that cannot be conflated with rejection of vaccines," the statement reads. "Liam has never been, and cannot be described as, against vaccines. His considerable work with Unicef reinforces his enduring support for global immunisation initiatives."
The statement added that the star did not shape the film's narrative and that concerns about its claims ought to go to the producers.
Major Assertions Featured in the Feature
In the film, the script read by Neeson makes several provocative points:
- It claims that pro-vaccine voices have called for "complete compliance" to government bodies.
- It argues that "medical science has become deeply politicized."
- Robert F Kennedy Jr is interviewed stating, "The big problem with vaccines is that they are not safely tested."
- It also criticizes Covid lockdowns, claiming they caused psychological harm that resulted in thousands of lives.
- Regarding Covid vaccines, it references a report that they were "developed too quickly" and seen as "hazardous tests."
Previous Background and Ongoing Issues
It also references a past television report about HIV drug testing on children, which was afterwards the subject of a BBC apology by the network for violations of guidelines.
Last month, the political figure called on the Centers for Disease Control to alter its long-held position that there is no connection between immunizations and autism. This supposed link is repeated in the film, despite a recent study from the WHO confirming no connection has been found.
A Past Statement of Support
Standing in contrast to the documentary's narrative, Neeson has formerly shown firm endorsement for vaccines in his capacity as a Unicef global ambassador.
Two years ago, he described vaccines as "an incredible achievement," stating that "The debate about vaccines in recent years has lost sight of how much positive impact they have done... It is perhaps one of the biggest collective achievements in human history."
"Plague of Corruption" finishes with Neeson's voice proclaiming, "This is not the end of our narrative. This is the dawn of a different phase."