world
Kanye West Offers to Meet UK Jewish Leaders Over Wireless Festival Booking Controversy
Kanye West has proposed meeting members of the UK Jewish community in response to criticism of his headlining role at London's Wireless Festival. The backlash stems from his past antisemitic statements, prompting sponsor withdrawals and comments from British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. West issued a statement expressing intent to demonstrate change through actions.
Apr 7, 4:25 AM·2m read2 sources
VA
slate.comAudio version
Tap play to generate a narrated version.
Kanye West, performing under the name Ye, has offered to meet with UK Jewish community leaders amid controversy surrounding his booking as a headliner for the Wireless Festival in London. The festival, one of the UK's largest music events, announced West's participation, which drew immediate criticism due to his history of antisemitic remarks.
Sponsors including Pepsi, PayPal, and Diageo withdrew their support on Sunday.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer addressed the issue in comments to The Sun newspaper, describing the booking as deeply concerning given West's previous antisemitic remarks and references to Nazism. Starmer stated that antisemitism in any form is abhorrent and must be confronted. The controversy has led to political discussions in the UK about ensuring safety for Jewish communities.
West issued a statement to the BBC outlining his position on the matter.
“To Those I’ve Hurt: I’ve been following the conversation around Wireless and want to address it directly. My only goal is to come to London and present a show of change, bringing unity, peace, and love through my music.”
In the statement, West expressed willingness to meet community members in person to listen and emphasized that actions would demonstrate change. He signed the message as Ye. Festival Republic, the promoter, defended the booking through executive Melvin Benn in a statement on Monday.
Benn urged fans to offer forgiveness and hope. The company has not altered the festival lineup as of the latest reports. Actor David Schwimmer commented on social media on Monday, praising the withdrawing sponsors for their decision not to platform West.
