Sponsors Spotify, Pepsi, Diageo, & Monster Energy have pulled out of the event.
London’s annual Wireless Festival has been cancelled as a result of the UK Home Office denying Ye’s entry into the United Kingdom. Rapper Kanye West, legally known as Ye, was set to headline three dates this summer.
Ye’s electronic travel authorisation (ETA) application was withdrawn on Monday by Home Office ministers regarding Ye’s past antisemitic actions, which included the sale of Yeezy-branded swastika t-shirts and controversial remarks that saw the rapper banned from some social media platforms. Last year, Ye had released a song entitled ‘Heil Hitler,’ which was strongly condemned by the Auschwitz Jewish Center.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer voiced his criticism on X, stating: “Kanye West should never have been invited to headline Wireless” and that the “government stands firmly with the Jewish community.”
Festival Republic claimed that “no concerns were highlighted at the time” when Ye was booked and acknowledged the abhorrence of antisemitism. They have now issued a full refund to all ticket holders.
In response to initial backlash over his Wireless Festival appearance, Ye issued a statement. “I know words aren’t enough – I’ll have to show change through my actions. If you’re open. I’m here.” He also expressed that he was willing to meet with members of the British Jewish community. In January, he took out an advertisement in the Wall Street Journal apologising for his antisemitic behaviour and linked it to his bipolar disorder. He continues to discuss his mental health struggles in the public domain.
Read the full statements provided below.
PHOTO CREDIT: (Cover photo courtesy of Matt Winkelmeyer for Getty Images) (Pictures 1 and 3 are courtesy of Festival Republic) (Picture 2 is courtesy of Ye)
