Electric Picnic Organiser Sees UK Festival Cancelled After Kanye West Booking

Tuesday, 7 April 2026 07:56

Wireless Festival has received criticism for the inclusion of the 48 year old.

"Kanye West should never have been invited to headline Wireless," is the statement from UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer after his Government blocked the rapper from entering the country to perform at the festival.

He goes on to say they stand "firmly with the Jewish Community" and will always take the "action necessary to protect the public and uphold our values."

Less than an hour after the ban was announced, promoters Festival Republic completely cancelled Wireless Festival, stating that refunds would be issued to all ticket holders.

The decision to name Ye as the London festival's headliner drew heavy criticism last week, due to his history of antisemitism.

The rapper claims his past remarks were the result of a manic episode linked to bipolar disorder.

Festival Republic say "multiple stakeholders were consulted in advance of booking Ye and no concerns were highlighted at the time."

They added that anti-semitism "is abhorrent" and that the artist still hopes to speak with and apologise to members of the British Jewish community.

The boss of Electric Picnic is defending Kanye West's headline slot at one of his UK festivals - following a widespread backlash, and the loss of several major brand partnerships.

Wireless Festival is losing sponsors, including Pepsi and Diageo.

Melvin Benn says he's a 'deeply committed anti-facist' and 'pro-Jew' - and described the rapper's past antisemitic remarks as 'abhorrent.'

But, Mr Benn, added he's also a person of forgiveness - adding Kanye West has a 'legal right' to come and perform in the UK, with his music played on the radio there.

Meanwhile, Kanye West's issued a statement over his controversial appearance at this year's Wireless festival in the UK.

Kanye says he's been following the conversation around Wireless.

In a statement addressed “To Those I’ve Hurt" he's said he'd be grateful for the opportunity to meet in person with members of the UK's Jewish community, adding he knows words aren't enough and he has to show change through his actions.

UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting thinks he should never have been booked: