Star Rejects Anti-Vaxxer Views Following Voicing Disputed Pandemic Feature
Liam Neeson has lent his voice to a new documentary that casts doubt on the legitimacy of vaccines and commends one-time health official RFK Jr.
The Documentary's Disputed Foundation
Titled "Plague of Corruption," the documentary is adapted from a well-known publication written by Judy Mikovits, who gained notoriety during the health crisis for assertions that the virus was linked to a bad strain of the influenza shot.
Her writing partner, Kent Heckenlively, has also written books with conspiracy-prone radio host a known commentator. The producer wrote online hailing Neeson's role in the documentary.
A Strong Denial
A spokesperson for the actor have released a statement firmly refuting claims that he holds anti-vaccine beliefs.
"Many understand that corruption may occur within the drug industry, but that must not be confused with being against vaccines," the statement reads. "He never has been, and remains not, anti-vax. His long work with the UN children's agency underscores his enduring support for global immunisation initiatives."
It noted that the actor was not involved in crafting the film's editorial content and that inquiries about its assertions are best addressed to the filmmakers.
Central Assertions Within the Film
According to the documentary, the voiceover read by Neeson makes several provocative points:
- It claims that pro-vaccine voices have insisted on "blind obedience" to health authorities.
- It argues that "research has become dangerously politicised."
- Kennedy is shown saying, "The major issue with vaccines is that they are not safely tested."
- The narration further attacks pandemic restrictions, arguing they caused mental anguish that resulted in thousands of lives.
- Regarding the immunizations, it cites a view that they were "rushed to market" and seen as "risky trials."
Past Context and Ongoing Disputes
It further cites a 2004 BBC documentary about clinical trials on children, which was later the subject of a BBC apology by the corporation for editorial breaches.
Last month, Kennedy directed the national health agency to revise its long-held position that there is no link between vaccines and autism spectrum disorder. This assertion is also referenced in the documentary, even with a new report from the global health body confirming no such link has been found.
A Past Position of Endorsement
Contrasting the documentary's tone, Neeson has formerly voiced clear advocacy for vaccines in his position as a Unicef global ambassador.
Two years ago, he called vaccines as "an incredible triumph," adding that "The discourse about vaccines in recent years has forgotten how much benefit they have done... It is perhaps one of the biggest human endeavors in history."
The film finishes with Neeson's voice stating, "This marks not the conclusion of our journey. This is the start of a fresh chapter."