Performer Rejects Anti-Vaxxer Stance Following Narrating Contentious Pandemic Documentary
The "Taken" star has lent his narration to a feature-length documentary that casts doubt on the legitimacy of vaccines and commends one-time government figure the political figure.
The Film's Contentious Basis
Called "Plague of Corruption," the project is based on a bestselling book written by a controversial scientist, who rose to infamy during the pandemic for allegations that the illness was caused by a problematic version of the influenza shot.
The book's writing partner, Kent Heckenlively, has also written books with conspiracy-prone radio host Alex Jones. The producer recently posted celebrating Neeson's role in the project.
A Firm Denial
Representatives for Neeson have released a response firmly refuting implications that he holds anti-vax views.
"Many acknowledge that unethical practices can exist within the drug industry, but that cannot be equated to being against vaccines," the statement reads. "He is not, and is not, against vaccines. His considerable work with the UN children's agency highlights his enduring support for public-health initiatives."
The statement noted that the star had no hand in the film's messaging and that questions about its content are best addressed to the creators.
Major Themes Within the Film
As presented, the voiceover read by Neeson makes several provocative points:
- It states that pro-immunization voices have insisted on "complete compliance" to public institutions.
- It declares that "medical science has become deeply influenced by politics."
- Kennedy is interviewed saying, "The big problem with vaccines is that they just aren't adequately tested."
- It further attacks pandemic restrictions, claiming they caused psychological harm that resulted in thousands of lives.
- On the topic of Covid vaccines, it cites a report that they were "hurriedly approved" and seen as "dangerous experiments."
Previous Controversy and Current Debates
It also references a historical film about clinical trials on children, which was later the focus of a correction by the broadcaster for editorial breaches.
Last month, Kennedy directed the CDC to revise its longstanding position that there is no causal relationship between immunizations and autism spectrum disorder. This supposed link is also referenced in the documentary, contrary to a new report from the WHO reiterating no evidence has been found.
A Previous Record of Endorsement
Contrasting the documentary's tone, Neeson has previously shown clear advocacy for vaccines in his capacity as a charity ambassador.
Previously, he called vaccines as "a remarkable achievement," noting that "The conversation about vaccines in the past few years has overlooked how much good they have done... It is perhaps one of the biggest human endeavors in our history."
The film concludes with Neeson's script proclaiming, "This isn't the conclusion of our journey. It is the beginning of a fresh chapter."