The BBC has come under intense criticism for livestreaming punk-hip-hop duo Bob Vylan’s controversial set at the 2025 Glastonbury Festival, during which antisemitic language and a chant calling for “death to the IDF” were broadcast. 

The broadcaster has since issued a public apology, stating it “regrets” not pulling the livestream during the performance.

Bob Vylan’s Set Sparks Outrage Over Anti-Israel Remarks

During the June 29 performance, Bobby Vylan (real name Pascal Robinson-Foster) led the crowd in chanting, “Death, death to the IDF,” referring to the Israeli Defense Forces. The artist also voiced support for Palestine, stating that those with a “moral compass” would recognize the tragedy unfolding in Gaza.

He further claimed that, “sometimes, you gotta get your message across with violence because that is the only language that some people speak, unfortunately.” The remarks quickly ignited a firestorm online and in the media.

BBC Issues Apology, Pulls On-Demand Access

Although the BBC placed an on-screen warning about “very strong and discriminatory language” during the livestream, the broadcaster admitted in a June 30 statement that it failed to act appropriately in real time.

“The team were dealing with a live situation but with hindsight we should have pulled the stream during the performance. We regret this did not happen,” the BBC said.

The network also confirmed that Bob Vylan’s set would not be made available on-demand.

Glastonbury Festival Condemns Antisemitic Chant

The Glastonbury Festival quickly distanced itself from the performance, issuing a strong condemnation of Bobby Vylan’s remarks on June 29:

Bobby Vylan Responds on Social Media

In an Instagram post dated June 30, Bobby Vylan remained defiant, stating: “I said what I said.” He shared a personal story about his daughter’s school survey regarding better meal options, adding:

“It is incredibly important that we encourage and inspire future generations to pick up the torch that was passed to us.”

Despite the backlash, the artist did not retract his comments. Read below the full post:

UTA Drops Bob Vylan Amid Controversy

Amid growing criticism, leading talent agency UTA (United Talent Agency) dropped Bob Vylan from its client roster. The band’s profile has since been removed from the agency’s official website.

U.S. Tour Canceled as Visas Revoked

Bob Vylan were scheduled to perform in the United States later this year, but their plans have been abruptly canceled after U.S. visas for the band members were officially revoked.

In a statement posted on X, U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau confirmed the decision, writing:

“The @StateDept has revoked the U.S. visas for the members of the Bob Vylan band in light of their hateful tirade at Glastonbury, including leading the crowd in death chants. Foreigners who glorify violence and hatred are not welcome visitors to our country.”

UK Prime Minister Condemns Hate Speech at Glastonbury

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer also addressed the controversy in a statement on June 29, criticizing both Bob Vylan and the BBC:

He further demanded accountability from the BBC, stating, “The BBC needs to explain how these scenes came to be broadcast.”

BBC Previously Blocked Kneecap’s Performance Over Pro-Palestine Remarks

Just one day earlier, on June 28, the BBC confirmed it would not broadcast a scheduled Glastonbury set by Irish rap trio Kneecap due to their outspoken support for Palestine. The decision came after Starmer criticized their inclusion, calling it “not appropriate.”

Kneecap has faced legal issues in the UK after member Mo Chara was charged with a terrorism offense for displaying the Hezbollah flag during a London performance. In response, the group stated: “We deny this ‘offence’ and will vehemently defend ourselves. This is political policing.”