Actor Rejects Anti-Vax Stance After Narrating Contentious Coronavirus Film
Liam Neeson has given his voice to a new documentary that questions the efficacy of vaccines and lauds one-time health official Robert F Kennedy Jr.
The Film's Disputed Origins
Called "Plague of Corruption," the documentary is based on a well-known publication written by a disgraced researcher, who became famous during the global outbreak for claims that the illness was a result of a faulty batch of the influenza shot.
The book's collaborator, Kent Heckenlively, has penned books with controversial media personality Alex Jones. The producer recently posted praising Neeson's participation in the film.
An Unequivocal Statement
A spokesperson for the actor have released a response pushing back against claims that he subscribes to anti-vaccine beliefs.
"Many acknowledge that unethical practices might be present within the pharmaceutical industry, but that must not be confused with rejection of vaccines," the statement reads. "He never has been, and remains not, anti-vax. His extensive work with the global charity highlights his consistent support for global immunisation initiatives."
The statement noted that the performer had no hand in the film's messaging and that inquiries about its content should be directed to the producers.
Key Claims Featured in the Documentary
As presented, the voiceover spoken by Neeson includes several controversial claims:
- It states that pro-vaccine voices have demanded "unconditional submission" to government bodies.
- It argues that "medical science has become highly politicized."
- Robert F Kennedy Jr is featured stating, "The big problem with vaccines is that they simply are not safely tested."
- The film further attacks stay-at-home orders, arguing they caused psychological harm that led to the loss of thousands of lives.
- Regarding pandemic shots, it references a view that they were "hurriedly approved" and seen as "risky trials."
Previous Controversy and Current Debates
It includes a 2004 BBC documentary about clinical trials on children, which was subsequently the focus of a formal apology by the broadcaster for violations of guidelines.
Recently, RFK Jr instructed the Centers for Disease Control to change its long-held position that there is no causal relationship between immunizations and autism spectrum disorder. This assertion is repeated in the film, even with a recent study from the WHO confirming no such link has been found.
An Earlier Position of Advocacy
Standing in contrast to the film's message, Neeson has in the past expressed clear advocacy for vaccines in his capacity as a UNICEF goodwill ambassador.
Two years ago, he called vaccines as "a remarkable triumph," adding that "The conversation about vaccines in recent years has forgotten 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 script saying, "This is not the conclusion of our narrative. Rather, it is the dawn of a new chapter."
