Ye Offers to Meet UK Jewish Community Amid Calls to Cancel Wireless Festival Performance

LONDON — Ye, the rapper formerly known as Kanye West, offered on Tuesday to meet with members of the UK's Jewish community to listen and show change through actions. This comes amid growing calls from politicians and sponsors to cancel his scheduled performances at the Wireless Festival in London's Finsbury Park from July 10 to 12. The festival expects around 150,000 attendees over three nights.

Ye, 48, has faced widespread condemnation for antisemitic statements and expressing admiration for Adolf Hitler. Last year, he released a song titled "Heil Hitler" and advertised a swastika T-shirt on his website. In January, Ye apologized in a full-page advertisement in the Wall Street Journal, attributing his behavior to a four-month manic episode related to his bipolar disorder.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting stated Tuesday that Ye should "absolutely not" perform at the festival.

He described the organizers' defense as "absurd" and noted that Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is considering banning Ye from entering the UK. " Sponsors Pepsi, Rockstar Energy, and Diageo have withdrawn from the festival since Ye was announced as headliner. Festival Republic, the organizer, has stood by the booking.

Managing Director Melvin Benn acknowledged the home secretary's authority to revoke Ye's visa, stating that if she does, the issue would be resolved.

a statement Tuesday, Ye expressed willingness to meet Jewish community members in person.

“I would be grateful for the opportunity to meet with members of the Jewish community in the U.K. in person, to listen. I know words aren’t enough — I’ll have to show change through my actions.”

Benn urged forgiveness and hope for Ye in a Monday statement. He emphasized that the festival provides a platform only for Ye to perform songs played on UK radio and streaming services, enjoyed by millions, not to express opinions.

legally changed his name from Kanye West in 2021.

His antisemitic remarks provoked outrage, leading to professional repercussions including lost partnerships. The Wireless Festival booking has intensified scrutiny, with a senior government member reinforcing opposition Tuesday. A representative for Ye did not respond to requests for comment. Organizers face ongoing pressure as the event approaches.