Police probe Glastonbury performance after controversial gig

Daily Mirror

3 days ago

Police have said they are investigating Kneecap's performance at Glastonbury on Saturday afternoon. The Irish rap trio took to the stage at 4pm where they were met by a packed out crowd following Bob Vylan's set.
However, police have now said they are monitoring footage from the stage. Avon and Somerset Police posted on X: "We are aware of the comments made by acts on the West Holts Stage at Glastonbury Festival this afternoon.
"Video evidence will be assessed by officers to determine whether any offences may have been committed that would require a criminal investigation."
Before the band had even taken to the stage, Glastonbury bosses were forced to shut the area down as too many people had flocked to see them. It came as a blow for those who wanted to catch the trio perform as their set is not being shown on the BBC.
The highly controversial gig won't be streamed live but an on-demand version will be available. A BBC spokesperson said: "As the broadcast partner, the BBC is bringing audiences extensive music coverage from Glastonbury, with artists booked by the festival organisers. Whilst the BBC doesn't ban artists, our plans ensure that our programming meets our editorial guidelines.
"We don't always live stream every act from the main stages and look to make an on-demand version of Kneecap's performance available on our digital platforms, alongside more than 90 other sets."
Glastonbury bosses even warned fans before the performance that large crowds were to be expected. They sent out a crowd warning as they named a list of artists who they think will draw in the biggest crowds.
Bosses told festival goers: "Kneecap will draw a large audience for their 4pm West Holts show. If you're not planning to see them, please plan alternative routes around that area. If you do plan to attend, listen to stewards, and please have some other entertainment options in mind in case the field reaches capacity and we need to close it as part of our crowd planning measures."
Band member Mo Chara's caused controversy recently after he was charged with brandishing a flag backing banned militant group Hezbollah at a gig in November 2024. He, real name Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, appeared in court last week as a result.
The 27-year-old faced Westminster Magistrates' Court on June 18 while supporters and musicians, including Paul Weller, gathered outside.
The charge related to an incident after the band's O2 Forum show in Kentish Town, London. However the band had branded the case against the musician as a "witch hunt".
The band's scheduled appearance at Glastonbury was put in doubt and they faced calls from the Prime Minister for them to be booted off the line up.
However, Kneecap, which is also made up of Naoise O Caireallain and JJ O Dochartaigh, were still able to perform and speaking at court, the band said: "For anybody going to Glastonbury, you can see us there at 4pm on Saturday. If you can't be there we'll be on the BBC. Most importantly: free, free Palestine."