Home » Kneecap at Glastonbury 2025: Controversy, Politics, and BBC Coverage
Kneecap performing live at Glastonbury 2025 with crowd and flags
Kneecap’s headline set at Glastonbury 2025 drew massive crowds and sparked political debate.
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Kneecap at Glastonbury 2025: Controversy, Politics, and BBC Coverage

Kneecap, the Belfast-based Irish-language rap trio, took center stage at Glastonbury 2025 amid a storm of political controversy, legal challenges, and intense public scrutiny. Their performance became one of the most talked-about moments of the festival, raising questions about freedom of expression, the boundaries of political art, and the responsibility of public broadcasters.

Who Are Kneecap?

Kneecap is an Irish hip-hop group known for blending English and Irish lyrics with sharp political commentary. Their music often addresses themes of Irish identity, social justice, and global politics. The trio has built a dedicated following for their unapologetic activism and energetic live shows.

The Road to Glastonbury 2025

Mounting Controversy

In the months leading up to Glastonbury, Kneecap found themselves at the center of a national debate. Their outspoken support for Palestinian causes and provocative stage antics drew both admiration and condemnation. The controversy reached a peak when the group was charged with a terrorism-related offense, leading to calls for their removal from the festival lineup.

The Terrorism Charge

  • Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh (stage name Mo Chara), a member of Kneecap, was charged under the UK Terrorism Act for allegedly displaying a Hezbollah flag during a London concert in November 2024.
  • Hezbollah is classified as a terrorist organization in the UK.
  • Mo Chara denies the charges and is currently out on bail, with his next court appearance scheduled for August 2025.

Political and Public Reaction

  • UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer publicly stated that Kneecap’s appearance at Glastonbury was “not appropriate.”
  • Conservative leaders and Jewish organizations echoed calls for the BBC to avoid broadcasting the set.
  • Despite pressure, over 100 musicians signed a letter supporting Kneecap’s right to perform.
  • The BBC and Glastonbury organizers maintained their commitment to artistic freedom, though not without internal debate.

Glastonbury 2025: The Performance

Crowd Reaction

  • Kneecap played to a packed West Holts stage, with crowds so large that access was temporarily restricted.
  • The audience included a visible show of Palestinian flags and vocal support for the band’s political stance.

Key Moments On Stage

  • The set featured direct criticism of Prime Minister Keir Starmer, with chants and explicit language.
  • Mo Chara addressed the terrorism charge, calling it “fabricated” and referencing historical injustices against Irish people.
  • The group led the crowd in chants of “Free, free Palestine,” reinforcing their activist message.
  • Kneecap thanked Glastonbury for standing by them despite the controversy.

The BBC’s Dilemma: To Broadcast or Not?

  • The BBC, as Glastonbury’s official broadcast partner, faced intense scrutiny over whether to air Kneecap’s performance.
  • Ultimately, the BBC decided not to stream the set live, citing editorial standards and the sensitive nature of the content.
  • Highlights and on-demand access were made available on BBC iPlayer, but with warnings about strong language and political content.
  • The BBC’s approach differed from its handling of other controversial acts, such as Bob Vylan, whose set was not made available on-demand after government intervention.
BBC ResponseKneecap SetBob Vylan Set
Live BroadcastNoYes (with warnings)
On-DemandYes (with warnings)No
ReasonEditorial standards, political sensitivityOffensive language, government pressure

Wider Cultural Impact and Industry Response

  • The Kneecap controversy ignited a broader debate about the limits of artistic expression and the responsibilities of public broadcasters.
  • Music industry figures were divided; some called for Kneecap’s removal, while others defended their right to perform.
  • The incident highlighted ongoing tensions in British and Irish politics, especially regarding free speech, activism, and the legacy of conflict.

Conclusion

Kneecap’s Glastonbury 2025 performance was more than just a concert—it was a flashpoint in the ongoing conversation about music, politics, and the power of live performance. The group’s defiance in the face of legal and political pressure, the BBC’s cautious approach to broadcasting, and the overwhelming crowd support all underscore the enduring significance of Glastonbury as a stage for cultural and political expression.

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