Actor Rob Schneider has stirred significant controversy following his comments about the late NBA legend Dikembe Mutombo. After the beloved basketball icon’s passing at 58 due to brain cancer on September 30, Schneider resurfaced a 2021 video featuring Mutombo promoting COVID-19 vaccinations from the World Health Organization (WHO), per NYpost.

In a post on X, formerly Twitter, Schneider implied a link between the vaccine and Mutombo’s death, stating, “Rest in Peace… I’m sure this is just (another) coincidence.” He then voiced his opposition to the vaccine, claiming, “I took a pass on the Jab and I’m gonna not let anyone I know (and who will Listen) get it either!”

Schneider’s comments have ignited a firestorm of criticism, highlighting the dangers of misinformation surrounding vaccines. Many social media users condemned Schneider for using Mutombo’s death to propagate his anti-vaccination narrative, with one comment succinctly urging him to “stop with the propaganda.” This incident has drawn attention not only for Schneider’s unfounded claims but also for the timing, as he chose to link a health issue unrelated to the vaccine to a beloved public figure.

Mutombo, who spent an impressive 18 seasons in the NBA, had actively promoted the importance of vaccinations during the pandemic. In his original 2021 message, he urged his followers to rely on trusted sources like WHO, stressing that collective efforts were essential in overcoming COVID-19. Schneider’s decision to exploit this tragic moment for his own agenda has raised eyebrows and caused public outrage, leading to his post garnering around 4.7 million views and sparking heated discussions online.

Schneider’s response and ongoing controversy

In the wake of the backlash, Schneider doubled down on his stance, responding to his critics with an anti-vaccination video. He labeled his detractors as “Fake Outrage Warriors” and shifted the blame to political figures and medical professionals whom he accused of spreading false narratives about the vaccine. “Save your anger for the liars who promised the jab was the only cure,” he posted, directing ire toward public figures like President Biden and Dr. Anthony Fauci. Schneider also praised several controversial figures he views as heroes during the pandemic, further solidifying his position against mainstream medical guidance.

The criticism directed at Rob Schneider reflects broader societal tensions regarding vaccinations and public health policies. Despite the overwhelming evidence supporting vaccine efficacy in preventing severe illness and death, some continue to promote misinformation. According to WHO, 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 extensive testing before public distribution, challenging Schneider’s unfounded claims.

Schneider’s history of controversial opinions extends beyond his recent comments. He faced a 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 statements, it raises questions about the responsibilities of public figures in shaping discourse around critical health issues.

Burtland Dixon is an entertainment, celebrity, and music journalist for ClutchPoints. He has a degree from Cal State San Marcos, and he’s demonstrated his pop culture expertise for years with bylines at Idolator, Trend Chaser, and Buzznet.