Glastonbury in Hot Water Over Controversial West Holts Stage Acts
The iconic Glastonbury Festival is facing a storm after provocative performances on the West Holts Stage sparked a police probe and fierce political backlash.
Rap Punk Duo Bob Vylan Under Fire
Rap-punk pair Bob Vylan whipped the crowd into a frenzy with chants of “Free, free Palestine” and “Death, death to the IDF”. Meanwhile, Irish rap group Kneecap urged fans to “start a riot” in support of a bandmate facing terrorism charges. Avon and Somerset Police have launched an investigation into these incendiary remarks.
“We are aware of the comments made by acts on the West Holts Stage at Glastonbury Festival this afternoon,” the police said on social media. “Video evidence will be assessed by officers to determine whether any offences may have been committed that would require a criminal investigation.”
Culture Secretary Slams BBC and Glastonbury
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has demanded answers from the BBC Director General about giving Bob Vylan a platform. A government spokesperson said:
“We strongly condemn the threatening comments made by Bob Vylan at Glastonbury. The Culture Secretary has spoken to the BBC and welcomes the decision not to re-broadcast the performance on BBC iPlayer.”
The BBC had planned to stream Kneecap’s set but scrapped it amid backlash. It’s still unclear if the footage will stay online.
Kneecap’s Controversial Call to ‘Start a Riot’
Kneecap’s Naoise Ó Cairealláin (aka Moglai Bap) fired up the crowd, shouting:
“We’ll start a riot outside the courts,” referring to fellow member Liam Óg Ó Hannaidh’s upcoming terror-related court hearing.
He quickly backtracked, adding:
“No riots, just one and support… and support for Palestine.”
Ó Hannaidh, 27, wore a keffiyeh during the gig, while DJ Provai sported a balaclava and a T-shirt declaring “We are all Palestine Action” — a group set to be banned under UK anti-terror laws.
The Terror Charges Behind the Controversy
Ó Hannaidh faces charges for allegedly displaying a Hezbollah flag during a Belfast show last November and shouting slogans supporting Hamas and Hezbollah. He denies all charges and is currently on unconditional bail, with his next court date set for August 20 at Westminster Magistrates’ Court.
Political Pressure Mounts on Festival
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer previously said Kneecap’s appearance was “not appropriate,” sparking outrage among artists and campaigners. During their Glastonbury set, Kneecap defiantly fired back:
“The Prime Minister of your country, not mine, said he didn’t want us to play, so f*** Keir Starmer.”
They also praised the Glastonbury Eavis family for refusing to remove them despite mounting pressure.
Crowd Stands By Artists Amid Police Watch
The controversial bands faced boos after clips criticising them were played before their sets. Yet, thousands turned up to back the acts.
Avon and Somerset Police have yet to confirm if any artists will be interviewed but said they are “assessing evidence” and closely monitoring public order and crowd safety throughout the festival.
