Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s Billionaire Former Running Mate Backing Crowdfunded Pandemic Comedy

Hollywood Reporter

by Mia Galuppo

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s billionaire former running mate, Nicole Shanahan, has joined forces with the nonprofit Brownstone Institute to executive produce a crowdfunded feature film, *The Rash*, a satirical comedy centered around a public-health professor inspired by Jay Bhattacharya, the NIH director who criticized COVID-19 pandemic restrictions and vaccination efforts. The project, written by Walter Kirn (author of *Up in the Air*), blends humor with themes of societal reaction to a mysterious rash, pharmaceutical greed, and cultural satire. Funded through Brownstone Institute, which was established in response to government pandemic policies, the film aims to critique societal overreactions to public health crises while exploring the financial motivations behind them. The film, directed by Paul Gundy and produced with a budget of nearly $6 million, features a plotline that parodies the cultural obsession with pandemics. It follows a Stanford professor who challenges the mania surrounding a fictional rash, leading to comedic clashes with pharmaceutical companies and societal institutions. The project’s pitch deck and sizzle reel are available for investors on Brownstone's website, which emphasizes its alignment with the nonprofit's mission to address government overreach in public health. *The Rash* is notable for its unique blend of satire and cultural commentary, drawing comparisons to films like *Wag the Dog*, *Thank You for Smoking*, and *Dr. Strangelove*. Its financing model, leveraging libertarian principles and crowdfunding efforts, marks a departure from traditional Hollywood production methods. Shanahan, who became a billionaire after her divorce from Google co-founder Sergey Brin, brings high-profile credibility to the project alongside her partner Jacob Strumwasser. The film’s execution reflects a broader trend of independent productions gaining traction in the entertainment industry, offering fresh perspectives on timely and controversial topics. For readers interested in entertainment and cultural commentary, *The Rash* represents a unique opportunity to engage with a satirical take on contemporary public health debates. Its blend of humor, satire, and critical analysis makes it a compelling addition to the independent film landscape, appealing to audiences who appreciate thought-provoking storytelling and alternative perspectives on societal issues.

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Originally published on Hollywood Reporter on 2/23/2026