
BBC issues statement about Kneecap's Glastonbury performance
The BBC has issued a statement about rap trio Kneecap 's performance at Glastonbury, saying it would not broadcast it live but would 'look to make an on-demand version available' on iPlayer.
Kneecap's Saturday performance at the festival comes amid significant criticism from politicians.
Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, also known as Mo Chara, faces a charge under the Terrorism Act for allegedly waving a Hezbollah flag at a London concert in November.
The Belfast-based band has drawn criticism for its explicit lyrics, political statements, and alleged shouts of support for Hamas and Hezbollah, though members deny supporting these groups.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer earlier said it would not be appropriate for Glastonbury to provide a platform for the band, while festival organiser Emily Eavis maintained that everyone is welcome.
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The Independent
23 minutes ago
- The Independent
Notting Hill Carnival belongs in the streets, now more than ever
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The Independent
23 minutes ago
- The Independent
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The National
24 minutes ago
- The National
Glastonbury Festival 'appalled' by Bob Vylan's Israeli military chants
The festival organisers' comments come after police said they are assessing videos from the band's performance on Saturday, along with Irish trio Kneecap's set. Rapper Bobby Vylan, one half of the rap punk duo Bob Vylan, led crowds on the festival's West Holts Stage in chants of 'death, death to the IDF' along with 'free, free Palestine'. Responding to comments made by Bob Vylan on Saturday, Glastonbury Festival released a statement in a post on Instagram. READ MORE: Kneecap responds to 'legend' who streamed their Glastonbury set after BBC blackout It read: 'With almost 4000 performances at Glastonbury 2025, there will inevitably be artists and speakers appearing on our stages whose views we do not share, and a performer's presence here should never be seen as a tacit endorsement of their opinions and beliefs. 'However, we are appalled by the statements made from the West Holts stage by Bob Vylan yesterday. 'Their chants very much crossed a line and we are urgently reminding everyone involved in the production of the festival that there is no place at Glastonbury for antisemitism, hate speech or incitement to violence.'