Melvin Benn, managing director of Festival Republic, has defended the decision to book Kanye West for Wireless Festival, citing the rapper's legal right to perform in the UK. West is set to headline all three nights of the festival in London's Finsbury Park this July, despite widespread criticism over past antisemitic comments.
In a statement, Benn described himself as a 'deeply committed anti-fascist' and a 'person of forgiveness', while condemning West's previous remarks about Jews and Hitler as 'abhorrent'. He argued that West's music is already widely available on UK radio and streaming platforms, and that the festival is not providing a platform for opinion but for performance of songs already enjoyed by millions.
The booking has drawn sharp criticism from political leaders, including Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who called it 'deeply concerning'. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is under pressure from MPs and the Campaign Against Antisemitism (CAA) to deny West entry under immigration laws, with shadow home secretary Chris Philp urging her to act.
Several major sponsors, including Pepsi and Diageo, have withdrawn support from the festival. PayPal will also not appear in future promotional materials. The controversy comes amid rising antisemitism in the UK, including recent attacks on Jewish community ambulances and a synagogue.
Benn appealed for forgiveness and second chances, stating that these values are becoming lost in a divisive world. However, Jewish community organisations and politicians argue that West's presence would not be conducive to the public good, and the government is reviewing his permission to enter the UK.
