In a recent appearance on Joe Rogan’s podcast, actor Woody Harrelson launched a scathing attack on Dr. Anthony Fauci, calling him “extraordinarily evil” for approving and distributing the HIV/AIDS medication AZT (azidothymidine) during the height of the epidemic.
AZT, the first FDA-approved antiretroviral drug, was introduced to slow the progression of HIV/AIDS, extending the lives of those affected. While it was not a cure, a 1989 study found that AIDS patients taking AZT had a 4.5 times longer median survival time than those who did not.
Harrelson’s Claims Against AZT
Speaking to Rogan, Harrelson claimed that AZT was both “highly toxic” and “ineffective”, alleging that its use led to countless deaths.
“AZT was known to be a highly toxic, really ineffective drug, and of course, that was the one they picked,” Harrelson said. “They started using that again, and I don’t know how many people that killed.”
The actor, who has previously spread COVID-19 conspiracy theories, went on to say:
“That killed friends of mine. AZT was very toxic, and they finally had to yank it. Now they use different chemical cocktails, but Fauci did some extraordinarily evil s**t.”
Dr. Fauci’s Role in HIV/AIDS Research
Dr. Anthony Fauci, who served as director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) from 1984 to 2022, was a key figure in the U.S. medical response to HIV/AIDS. While AZT was controversial due to its high toxicity at early dosages, it was later refined and incorporated into combination therapies that significantly improved survival rates.
A Pattern of Controversial Statements
This is not the first time Harrelson has voiced controversial opinions. The actor has previously promoted COVID-19 conspiracy theories, including claims about government and pharmaceutical industry collusion.
While AZT’s early side effects were severe, its role in HIV/AIDS treatment evolution is widely regarded as a critical step in antiretroviral therapy. Today, modern HIV treatments have drastically improved life expectancy and quality of life for those living with the virus.
