Performer Rejects Anti-Vaxxer Views After Narrating Disputed Coronavirus Feature

The "Taken" star has lent his narration to a new documentary that challenges the safety of immunizations and lauds one-time cabinet secretary RFK Jr.

The Film's Contentious Basis

Named "Plague of Corruption," the project is adapted from a well-known publication written by Judy Mikovits, who gained notoriety during the health crisis for assertions that the virus was a result of a faulty batch of the seasonal immunization.

The publication's co-author, a producer, has penned books with conspiracy-prone radio host Alex Jones. Heckenlively wrote online hailing Neeson's role in the documentary.

A Firm Statement

The team of Neeson have issued a statement pushing back against implications that he holds anti-vaccine sentiments.

"We all acknowledge that unethical practices can exist within the drug industry, but that should never be confused with rejection of vaccines," the response reads. "He is not, and cannot be described as, anti-vaccination. His considerable work with Unicef reinforces his consistent support for public-health initiatives."

It added that the actor was not involved in crafting the film's messaging and that questions about its assertions are best addressed to the filmmakers.

Major Claims In the Feature

As presented, the script spoken by Neeson features several provocative statements:

• It states that pro-vaccine voices have demanded "blind obedience" to health authorities.
• It argues that "science has become dangerously politicized."
• RFK Jr is shown stating, "The core flaw with vaccines is that they are not properly vetted."
• The narration also criticizes pandemic restrictions, arguing they caused psychological harm that cost thousands of lives.
• On the topic of Covid vaccines, it references a report that they were "rushed to market" and seen as "risky trials."

Previous Context and Recent Disputes

The film also references a 2004 BBC documentary about HIV drug testing on children, which was subsequently the topic of a BBC apology by the network for violations of guidelines.

In recent weeks, the political figure called on the CDC to change its long-held position that there is no causal relationship between vaccines and autism. This claim is repeated in the documentary, contrary to a new report from the global health body reiterating no connection has been found.

A Past Record of Endorsement

Contrasting the film's message, Neeson has in the past voiced firm endorsement for vaccines in his role as a UNICEF goodwill ambassador.

Two years ago, he called vaccines as "an extraordinary human success story," noting that "The discourse about vaccines in the past few years has overlooked how much positive impact they have done... It is perhaps one of the biggest shared accomplishments in history."

The film finishes with Neeson's narration proclaiming, "This is not the finish of our story. Rather, it is the dawn of a fresh chapter."