London music festival canceled after rapper Ye barred from U.K. entry due to past antisemitic remarks. The three-day event, set for July, was axed following backlash against the artist. Ye, formerly Kanye West, was denied entry after applying for travel authorization. The Home Office stated his presence would not benefit the public good.
Organizers announced the cancellation on their website. Ye was scheduled to headline for 150,000 attendees. Pressure mounted to cancel his appearance due to his history of antisemitic remarks, including releasing a song titled “Heil Hitler” and selling swastika-branded merchandise.
Ye has denied the Holocaust, defended Nazis, and made racist comments in the past. Despite issuing apologies, the festival faced criticism for booking him. Sponsors withdrew support, prompting the cancellation.
The organizers defended their initial decision to invite Ye, emphasizing they were unaware of concerns at the time. Authorities and community leaders supported the government’s action to bar Ye’s entry. The controversy has raised questions about Ye’s future in the music industry and his ability to rebuild trust with affected communities.