Belfast rap trio Kneecap has publicly apologized to the families of murdered MPs Sir David Amess and Jo Cox in response to renewed backlash over past stage remarks interpreted by some as supportive of Hamas and Hezbollah. The group denied any endorsement of violence, condemned attacks on civilians unequivocally, and called out the use of selectively edited footage which they say distorts their message. They redirected attention to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and criticized UK government arms policies.
Kneecap remains confirmed on the Glastonbury 2025 lineup — announced on March 6 — alongside headliners The 1975, Neil Young, and Olivia Rodrigo. This apology and the surrounding controversy have sparked a heated debate within the Reddit Glastonbury forum, with opinions sharply divided.
Some fans welcome the apology and anticipate Kneecap drawing huge crowds, viewing their inclusion as a stand for artistic freedom and political discourse. Others question why past comments from 2023 are resurfacing now and express concern over double standards, contrasting the response to Kneecap with that towards hate speech aimed at asylum seekers.
This episode underscores escalating tensions around politics, freedom of expression, and artist bookings at major festivals. While headliners remain unchanged, many are awaiting an official statement from Glastonbury producers on Kneecap’s status as the festival approaches.
For further reading on Kneecap’s musical journey and socio-political commentary, see How Irish-language trio Kneecap conquered hip-hop.
Source: r/glastonbury_festival