Kneecap Glastonbury: BBC Blackout & Historic Performance
- Irish rap trio Kneecap, known for their music addressing drug use and anti-colonialist views, has found itself at the center of controversy following their performance at Coachella and...
- During their Coachella set, Kneecap displayed a graphic accusing Israel of genocide funded by the United States.
- Amidst the controversy, the BBC opted not to broadcast Kneecap's set from the Glastonbury Festival.
Kneecap, the Irish rap trio, sparked fierce controversy at Coachella and Glastonbury, leading to visa issues and a BBC blackout of their set. Their pro-Palestine stance and defiance against censorship are making headlines. During Coachella, a graphic about Israel resulted in visa revocations and scrutiny. While facing setbacks, Kneecap remains steadfast, echoing the group’s belief in doing the right thing. Bob Vylan also voiced support at Glastonbury, adding to the ongoing discourse.News directory 3 reports on how the band’s future performances hang in the balance as thay navigate the repercussions. Discover what’s next for Kneecap amidst the fallout.
Kneecap Faces Backlash for Political Statements at Coachella and Glastonbury
Updated July 1, 2025
Irish rap trio Kneecap, known for their music addressing drug use and anti-colonialist views, has found itself at the center of controversy following their performance at Coachella and planned appearance at Glastonbury. The group’s outspoken support for Palestine has resulted in visa complications and censorship.
During their Coachella set, Kneecap displayed a graphic accusing Israel of genocide funded by the United States. This led to the revocation of their visas and scrutiny of their past performances. A video surfaced of member Mo Chara holding a Hezbollah flag, resulting in terror charges in the United Kingdom.
Amidst the controversy, the BBC opted not to broadcast Kneecap’s set from the Glastonbury Festival. despite the pressure, the group remains defiant. Speaking to the Guardian, Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, known as Mo Chara, stated the group believes they are on “the right side of history.”
“If we lose a few quid,we lose a bit of clout in a certain space,we don’t care – we know we’re doing the right thing,” Ó hAnnaidh said.
Ó hAnnaidh downplayed the setbacks, emphasizing the importance of viewpoint. He noted the challenges he faces are minor compared to those experiencing conflict and starvation. While the visa issues are not ideal, he said, he can cope with a revoked visa.
Despite the BBC blackout, Kneecap performed at Glastonbury to an enthusiastic crowd. Other artists also used the festival as a platform to express their views. Punk duo Bob Vylan led chants of ”free, free Palestine” and criticized the Israel Defense Forces.
Festival organizers condemned Bob Vylan’s statements, stating on Instagram, “There will inevitably be artists and speakers appearing on our stages whose views we do not share. However, we are appalled by the statements made from the West Holts stage by Bob Vylan yesterday.”
What’s next
Kneecap is currently in the process of applying for new visas, hoping to resolve the issues and continue performing internationally. The group’s future performances remain uncertain as they navigate the fallout from their political statements.