What did Jennifer Aniston say about Covid vaccine? Friends star defends stance on avoiding unvaccinated people

The 52-year-old said that it is ‘unfortunate’ there is still ‘a large group of people who just don’t listen to the facts’
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

Jennifer Aniston, best known for her role as Rachel in the iconic sitcom Friends, has admitted to cutting those from her life who refuse to be vaccinated against Covid-19.

Her comments come as UK holiday goers face potentially being banned from visiting attractions in France unless they have proof of a Covid-19 vaccination under Emmanuel Macron’s new coronavirus passport scheme.

What did Jennifer Aniston say?

Jennifer Aniston wins Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series for 'The Morning Show' (Photo: Gregg DeGuire/Getty Images for Turner)Jennifer Aniston wins Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series for 'The Morning Show' (Photo: Gregg DeGuire/Getty Images for Turner)
Jennifer Aniston wins Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series for 'The Morning Show' (Photo: Gregg DeGuire/Getty Images for Turner)
Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Recently, Aniston revealed that she has cut ties with people in her life that have refused the Covid-19 vaccine.

In an interview with InStyle, Aniston said: “There’s still a large group of people who are anti-vaxxers or just don’t listen to the facts. It’s a real shame. I’ve just lost a few people in my weekly routine who have refused or did not disclose [whether or not they have been vaccinated], and it was unfortunate.

“I feel it’s your moral and professional obligation to inform, since we’re not all podded up and being tested every single day. It’s tricky because everyone is entitled to their own opinion - but a lot of opinions don’t feel based in anything except fear or propaganda.”

Read More
Prime Minister authorises plans for shorter, ‘firebreak’ lockdowns as winter str...

What did Aniston say on her Instagram story?

Many took to Aniston’s Instagram account to question her comments in the interview, which led to the 52-year-old further explaining her stance in a post on her Instagram story.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

One comment on her Instagram read: “But if she’s vaccinated she’s protected correct? Why be worried about unvaxxed around her?”

Responding to this question, Aniston clarified her statement on her Instagram story, writing: “Because if you have the variant, you are still able to give it to me.

“I may get slightly sick but I will not be admitted to a hospital or die.

“But I can give it to someone else who does not have the vaccine and whose health is compromised (or has a previous existing condition) - and therefore I would put their lives at risk.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“THAT is why I worry. We have to care about more than just ourselves here.”

Instagram stories expire after 24 hours, so the post in question is now no longer available to view.

How have people reacted?

Following the interview, and her Instagram post, many have expressed their thoughts about the Friends star's stance. Across social media, the reaction has been mixed, with some leaving negative comments and others offering their support.

On Aniston’s Instagram, one commenter wrote: “Bye, can’t believe you are all about this vaccine stuff now and mandating how people should be forced to tell their personal health history to others! Unfollow.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Another commented: “Aniston, save your comments about the vaccine nobody cares about your beliefs… let the people make their own decisions.”

Someone else described Aniston as “narrow minded” in a comment on the social media platform.

However, not all of the responses have been negative.

While Aniston herself doesn’t have Twitter, screenshots of her comments have been making their way around the platform, with many offering their support.

One person wrote: “She’s hit the nail on the head there.”

Another wrote: “It’s nice to see someone making an argument for empathy when there hasn’t been nearly enough of that during this pandemic. It’s exhausting seeing all the comments from people who are apparently angry about the idea of caring about the well-being of others.”

“Jennifer Aniston speaking facts again. This woman deserves the whole world,” Tweeted another.

Comment Guidelines

National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.