Music
April 07, (THEWILL) — The Wireless music festival has been cancelled after rapper Kanye West, now known as Ye, was denied entry to the UK over his past antisemitic statements.
Ye applied for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) on Monday, but the Home Office blocked it, saying his presence “would not be conducive to the public good.”
Festival organizer confirmed the July event will not go ahead and promised refunds for ticket holders.
A festival spokesperson said: “Antisemitism in all its forms is abhorrent, and we recognize the real and personal impact these issues have had.
“Ye acknowledges that words alone are not enough and still hopes to begin a conversation with the Jewish community in the UK.”
Ye has faced criticism for making antisemitic remarks, including releasing a song titled “Heil Hitler” and selling swastika T-shirts last year.
He earlier apologised in a full-page Wall Street Journal ad, attributing his actions to bipolar disorder.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the booking “deeply concerning” and stressed that antisemitism must be firmly confronted.
Sponsors including Pepsi and Diageo withdrew support after Ye was announced as a headliner.
Festival Republic managing director Melvin Benn defended the booking, saying fans should “offer some forgiveness and hope” considering Ye’s mental health challenges.
He added that any offensive performance would have been stopped.
Ye responded to the recent controversy, saying he would be “grateful” to meet the Jewish community and intends to show “unity, peace and love” through his actions.
The cancellation leaves organizers with little time to adjust the lineup, as Wireless usually takes place over three days in London and attracts tens of thousands of fans.
