Rockmond Dunbar from ‘9-1-1’ Goes to Trial Against Disney+ in COVID-19 Vaccine Discrimination Suit

Rockmond Dunbar, known for his role in “9-1-1,” is currently in a legal battle with Disney+ over his refusal to receive the COVID-19 vaccine due to religious beliefs.

The trial began on October 14th, with 20th Television, a division of Disney, accusing Dunbar of using fake religious reasons to dodge their COVID-19 vaccine mandate, eventually leading to his dismissal from the show.

Back during the early days of the pandemic, stringent vaccine, mask, and testing requirements were the norm for people getting back to work, school, and daily activities. Dunbar, however, declined to get vaccinated, citing his faith as the primary reason. Upon being denied a religious exemption, he was let go from his role as Michael Grant on “9-1-1.”

Dunbar identifies with the Congregation of Universal Wisdom, following a blend of Buddhist and African Yoruba beliefs. His legal team argues that he doesn’t have to conform precisely to all aspects of the Congregation’s teachings for his beliefs to be safeguarded under federal law.

In a statement prior to the trial, his lawyers highlighted that since 2014, Dunbar has adhered to his beliefs, emphasizing the importance of accommodating his religious convictions.