Foxtel reviews Christian TV channel over anti-vax message
"We contacted Daystar for comment and launched a review of the issues raised," says Foxtel.
- Published by David Knox
- on
- Filed under Coronavirus, Subscription
Foxtel will review content from American Christian TV channel Daystar after complaints were received about broadcasting COVID-19 disinformation.
ABC reports the channel owned by ‘televangelists’ Marcus and Joni Lamb features guests who have promoted vaccine conspiracy theories and unproven treatments for COVID-19 that have been widely debunked by accredited experts, health professionals and governments around the world.
Susan — who has asked that her name be withheld — told The Drum her mother became so concerned about the potential side-effects of the COVID-19 jab that she’s now refused to be vaccinated.
“They repeat the programs and it’s not just one program on this channel, it’s multiple, which is revealing these kinds of views,” she said.
Foxtel said it supported pro-vaccination messaging, and provided free advertising to charities and community groups through its Community Service Announcement program.
“Upon becoming aware of these complaints, we contacted Daystar for comment and launched a review of the issues raised in relation to Daystar programming,” a spokesperson said.
“We will be responding to each of these customers shortly.”
ACMA is yet to formally receive any complaints.
2 Responses
Can Foxtel say honestly that someone somewhere in Foxtel actually monitors what these incidious programs are broadcasting. Does SCA monitor what their FTA Swaggart channel broadcasts? Every time I’m channel surfing I see they’re holding a “Praise-a-thon”. (“we need your help to raise the $4.5 million airtime budget this month”). tvtonight.com.au/2017/07/religious-channel-coming-to-southern-cross-network.html
Daystar has roped in several high profile anti-vaxers, like Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a son of late U.S. senator Robert F. Kennedy and a nephew of president John F. Kennedy. As he says on his anti-vax website – “You’re never more like the Lord than when you’re giving!”. Since 2005 he has promoted the scientifically-discredited idea that vaccines cause autism, and is founder and chairman of Children’s Health Defense, an anti-vaccine advocacy group.
“Free speech” is fine until it does harm. Daystar, and others, pay $Millions to carriers like Foxtel and SCA to carry their…
It wouldn’t be the first time a religious themed channel has come into review. Another satellite broadcast channel was banned in the UK last year after an Ofcom review.