Cillian Murphy, the star of “Oppenheimer” and “28 Days Later,” has embraced veganism for both health and ethical reasons. In the early 2000s, he gave up meat due to the widespread fear of mad cow disease, a fatal illness linked to beef consumption.
While Murphy started by avoiding meat out of concern for his health, his diet evolved into a fully plant-based lifestyle. He believes this is beneficial not only for his well-being but also for the environment, aligning his personal values with a growing movement toward sustainable living.
How ’28 Days Later’ And Mad Cow Disease Changed Cillian Murphy!
In the early 2000s, Cillian Murphy avoided meat due to concerns surrounding the Variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (vCJD), commonly known as mad cow disease. His role in “28 Days Later,” a film about a devastating virus outbreak, coincided with vCJD fears in real life.
In 2002, cases of the disease in the UK prompted widespread caution. The fatal illness, transmitted through contaminated beef, led Murphy to adopt a vegetarian diet, prioritizing health over ethical reasons. This decision marked the beginning of his journey toward veganism.
Murphy’s Shift To Veganism
For over 15 years, Cillian Murphy maintained a vegetarian diet due to his concerns over mad cow disease. However, he gradually transitioned to veganism, not just for health but also for ethical reasons.
Speaking with Marc Maron, he said, “I think it’s better for the planet, right?” emphasizing that a plant-based diet is not only better for individual well-being but also contributes positively to the environment.
Murphy also values the personal health benefits of veganism. “I’ve been off the meat for a long time,” he said, noting that he doesn’t miss it and feels better without it. He now remains committed to veganism for both environmental and health benefits.
Benefits to the Planet and Health
Environmental Impact
- A 2022 University of Bonn study suggested that cutting meat consumption by 75% in wealthy nations could alleviate environmental strain.
- Animal agriculture is responsible for approximately 14.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions and is linked to deforestation and pollution.
Health Advantages
- Plant-based diets can reduce the risk of chronic illnesses such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and specific cancers.
- This lifestyle may also lower the likelihood of foodborne illnesses, presenting a healthier option for individuals seeking long-term well-being.
Disease Threats From Factory Farming
Modern factory farming continues to pose significant health risks. Since 2021, a worsening outbreak of bird flu has affected various animal species, from birds to mammals, leading to concerns about contamination in the food supply.
Although the USDA is destroying milk from infected cows to prevent contamination, experts warn that factory farms are ideal environments for viral mutation and transmission.
Wendla Beyer, from Four Paws, emphasized that intensive farming accelerates virus mutation, highlighting the potential dangers of current farming practices.
Murphy’s Choice For A Brighter Future
Cillian Murphy’s shift to veganism was initially driven by fear of illness, but his reasons now include health and environmental concerns. His roles often explore dark themes, but his commitment to a plant-based diet offers a hopeful path toward personal well-being and sustainability.
By rejecting factory farming and embracing plant-based living, Murphy sets an example of a lifestyle that benefits both the individual and the planet. His advocacy is rooted in a desire for a healthier world, despite the continuing challenges of factory farming.
