Pratt backs RFK Jr amid fan backlash

Chris Pratt defends RFK Jr on Bill Maher’s podcast, drawing mixed reactions from fans who worry about public health and trust.

Pratt backs RFK Jr amid fan backlash

Chris Pratt appeared on Bill Maher’s Club Random podcast and defended Robert F Kennedy Jr, saying he enjoys family dinners with him and believes Kennedy is a great and funny person. Pratt asked that people stop criticizing Kennedy for his controversial vaccine views, framing their relationship as a personal bond rather than a policy debate. The remarks triggered a wave of responses on Pratt’s social media, with fans pledging support or vowing to boycott his work.

RFK Jr is widely known for vaccine skepticism and health policy positions that many health experts criticize. Coverage from outlets like the Daily Beast summarizes Kennedy’s stance on infant formula regulations and food additives, while NPR has noted broader tensions between scientific agencies and political leadership. Pratt said he does not intend to dig into Kennedy’s policy record, insisting he values his cousin-in-law’s character and avoids judging him solely on politics. He also said he agrees with a general view that toxic substances should be addressed, while acknowledging he does not fully follow every detail of Kennedy’s work.

The episode highlights how celebrity ties to political figures can complicate careers. Fans reacting on Instagram ranged from praise to warnings that Pratt should disengage from politics entirely. The situation illustrates how public discourse around vaccines and public health can spill into entertainment, forcing stars to navigate complex family dynamics while facing public scrutiny.

This moment shows how a simple family link can pull a celebrity into a high stakes political conversation. Pratt emphasizes personal warmth over policy, a choice that can protect his private life but risks amplifying controversy around Kennedy’s health views. It also exposes how celebrity narratives are shaped by media framing and social media amplification. NPR and Daily Beast context helps readers understand why Kennedy is contentious, but it can deepen divides as audiences weigh credibility against affection for a familiar face.

The backlash underscores a broader pattern in modern celebrity culture: fans expect clear values from stars, yet many public figures prefer focusing on personal relationships and faith. As coverage broadens beyond entertainment into health policy, Pratt may need to clarify where he stands to safeguard his brand or risk becoming a symbol in a heated political debate. The Kennedy family connection adds a layer of complexity that will keep this story in the spotlight for weeks to come.

Highlights

Public figures are judged by the company they keep, but the real test is how they navigate public accountability