Ian McNabb's upcoming tour dates, including several Scottish performances, have been cancelled following his social media comments in support of Russell Brand, who was jailed for more than 10 years this week for one count of rape and three sexual assaults.
The former Icicle Works frontman had said the disgraced comedian was being "stitched up" for his "outspoken views" and posted remarks that drew widespread disgust online. These were reported to Renegade Communions, the production company assisting with McNabb's shows.
Comments and Backlash
McNabb, an 80s rocker, wrote on social media: "He got close to the target and he has a big audience. I know people who were in his orbit and girls were throwing themselves at him every night. If that happened to me I know what I would do."
He continued: "Yer pays yer money yer takes yer chance. If you want to hang out with the artist don’t cry when you’re in the picture. All these chicks who turn up at these situations know exactly what’s going on. The ones who decided they were done badly to – ten years after the event – are the worst."
Company Response and Cancellations
Ewan McNaught of Renegade Communions confirmed the cancellation of planned gigs in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Kinross and Newcastle. He said: "I hate cancelling gigs, and it’s the first time in my career that I’ve had to do it, but not only can I not defend Ian McNabb’s disgraceful social media comments in support of Russell Brand, as a husband and a father of a young daughter, I simply can’t work with him moving forward."
McNaught added: "I’ve spoken to his agent and to the venues, and we’re all on the same page on this, and these won’t be the only shows on his tour that are cancelled. I’m told another five were cancelled today."
As a result, McNabb's shows later this month at The Cluny 2 in Newcastle (25.11.26), Cottiers, Glasgow (26.11.26) and The Voodoo Rooms, Edinburgh (27.11.26) have all been cancelled. Refunds are available from the point of purchase.
McNabb's Follow-Up Post
McNabb deleted his initial post but later posted a follow-up doubling down on his belief that Brand had been "treated unfairly". The message read: "It is with a heavy heart and deep sadness and regret that I make this post. I have been CANCELLED and therefore all of my shows for the future have also."
He added: "This is as a result of a post I made about the plight of British comedian/entertainer Russell Brand… I condemned the treatment of Brand, who I feel has been railroaded and treated unfairly. I condemn the treatment of women for sexual pleasure that is not consensual, I condemn the predatory nature of males who do so."
After apologising to fans who bought tickets, he said he will now "enter a period of self-reflection and contemplation". It is not currently clear if The Icicle Works concert will go ahead as planned next year.
