Church of Jesus Christ condemns Netflix show as ‘dangerously misleading’ – KUTV 2News

Now 30 Sun 37 Mon 38by Kaigan Bigler, KUTVTOPICS:SALT LAKE CITY (KUTV) — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has condemned a streaming series that officials said is “dangerously misleading.”While Church officials did not name the show, they are referring to the new Netflix miniseries “American Primeval,” which features a production of the Mountain Meadows Massacre in episode one.Officials with the Church posted on X Friday, explaining that the show mischaracterizes Brigham Young, the second president of the Church, as “a villainous, violent fanatic.”The Church’s full statement said:A recently released streaming series presents a fictionalized interpretation of events in mid-19th century Utah. While historical fiction can be illuminating, this drama is dangerously misleading. Brigham Young, a revered prophet and courageous pioneer, is, by any historical standard, egregiously mischaracterized as a villainous, violent fanatic. Other individuals and groups are also depicted in ways that reinforce stereotypes that are both inaccurate and harmful. As to the Mountain Meadows Massacre, which the series inaccurately portrays as reflective of a whole faith group, the Church has long acknowledged and condemned this horrific tragedy. It has also taken significant steps to uncover and share the full truth of what happened and promote healing. The problem with such deceptive, graphic and sensationalized storytelling is that it not only obscures reality and hinders genuine understanding but can foster animosity, hate and even violence. This is particularly troubling today when peacemakers are needed more than ever. At a time when so many responsible leaders are condemning the division and hostility that dominate so much of our public discourse, we echo the plea of President Russell M. Nelson: “The Savior’s message is clear: His true disciples build, lift, encourage, persuade, and inspire—no matter how difficult the situation. True disciples of Jesus Christ are peacemakers. Peacemaking is a choice. I urge you to choose to be a peacemaker, now and always.” This sentiment, shared across many traditions, is resonating around the world today. It is the prophetic message of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints—a message of peace that all the modern prophets have shared, including Brigham Young.The Mountain Meadows Massacre was an event that happened during what is known as the Utah War. The war originated with U.S. President James Buchanan deciding to replace Young as Utah governor, sending an army to escort Young’s replacement.The Massacre happened when a militia in Southern Utah who were all members of the Church attacked a wagon train of emigrants trying to get to California from Arkansas. History records say 120 people were killed, including women and children.In recent years, media has portrayed the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints through shows like “Hell on Wheels,” “Under the Banner of Heaven,” “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives,” and “The Book of Mormon” Broadway musical.____

Source: https://kutv.com/news/local/church-of-jesus-christ-condemns-netflix-show-as-dangerously-misleading