Kneecap faces backlash at Glastonbury as terrorism charge overshadows performance

In the United Kingdom, Irish-language rap group Kneecap is set to perform at the iconic Glastonbury Festival on Saturday, June 28, 2025, despite facing significant backlash from British politicians due to a terrorism charge against one of its members. Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, known as Mo Chara, was charged under the Terrorism Act after allegedly waving a Hezbollah flag during a concert in London last November. He is currently on unconditional bail, with a court hearing expected in August. This controversy has sparked discussions about the appropriateness of the group's performance at such a prominent event. Kneecap has gained notoriety for its politically charged lyrics and provocative imagery, often drawing from the language and themes of the Irish republican movement along with references to Northern Ireland’s history of violence. Prominent politicians, including UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, have criticized the festival for allowing the group to perform. Starmer specifically asserted that their participation would not be suitable given the ongoing legal issues faced by the band member. Despite the criticism, Kneecap maintains its supporters and argues that the backlash is an attempt to suppress their voice regarding political issues, particularly in relation to their support for Palestinian rights amid ongoing conflicts. The band has stated that they do not condone violence and have accused critics of attempting to silence their protest against the injustices in Gaza. Festival organizers have emphasized the importance of providing a platform for diverse voices and artists, reinforcing the festival's long-standing reputation as a space for political expression. Kneecap’s performance is drawing attention not only for its content but also for the large-scale attendance at the festival, which has about 200,000 attendees and features over 4,000 performers across 120 stages. The festival has a history of political statements made through performances, setting the stage for important conversations around censorship, artistic expression, and the balance between political commentary and public safety. This year's controversy could ultimately influence future decisions about artist selections at major music festivals.