Rob Schneider sparks outrage with controversial remarks on Dikembe Mutombo's death

International

ROB Schneider is making headlines for all the wrong reasons.

The Filipino-American actor has ignited a firestorm of criticism after making controversial comments following the death of NBA icon Dikembe Mutombo.

The beloved basketball player, who passed away at 58 from brain cancer on September 30, became the unwitting subject of Schneider's unfounded claims linking his death to the COVID-19 vaccine.

Schneider resurfaced a 2021 video featuring Mutombo promoting vaccinations through the World Health Organization (WHO), sparking a backlash that has swept across social media.

In a post on X, formerly Twitter, Schneider implied a connection between the vaccine and Mutombo's death, stating, “Rest in Peace… I’m sure this is just (another) coincidence.” He further expressed his anti-vaccine sentiments, declaring, “I took a pass on the Jab and I’m gonna not let anyone I know (and who will Listen) get it either!”

These remarks have drawn sharp condemnation, with many social media users criticizing Schneider for using Mutombo’s passing to advance his anti-vaccine narrative.

Comments like “stop with the propaganda” highlight the outrage over his attempts to exploit this tragedy. The timing of Schneider’s claims has raised eyebrows, especially since he linked a health issue unrelated to the vaccine to a highly respected public figure.

Mutombo, who had an illustrious 18-season NBA career, was a vocal advocate for vaccinations during the pandemic. In his original 2021 message, he urged followers to trust credible sources like the WHO and emphasized the importance of collective action to combat COVID-19.

Schneider's decision to leverage this moment for his personal agenda has sparked public outrage, resulting in his post receiving around 4.7 million views and fueling heated discussions online.

In the face of mounting backlash, Schneider doubled down on his stance, releasing an anti-vaccination video where he dismissed his critics as “Fake Outrage Warriors.” He shifted blame to politicians and medical professionals whom he accused of spreading misinformation about the vaccine.

“Save your anger for the liars who promised the jab was the only cure,” he wrote, specifically targeting figures like President Biden and Dr. Anthony Fauci.

Schneider also praised several controversial individuals he views as heroes during the pandemic, further entrenching his opposition to mainstream medical advice.

The criticism directed at Schneider reflects wider societal tensions surrounding vaccinations and public health.

Despite overwhelming evidence supporting the efficacy of vaccines in preventing severe illness and death, misinformation continues to spread.

The WHO reports that over 13 billion doses of COVID-19 vaccines have been administered globally, significantly reducing severe cases and fatalities. The organization emphasizes that all vaccines undergo rigorous testing before distribution, directly challenging Schneider's baseless claims.

Schneider's history of controversial statements is well-documented. He previously faced public fallout with his daughter, singer Elle King, who distanced herself from him and labeled his viewpoints as “very toxic and very silly.”

As Schneider continues to make headlines for his divisive opinions, important questions arise about the responsibilities of public figures in shaping discussions on critical health issues.(MyTVCebu)