High-profile celebrities including actors Mark Ruffalo, Nicola Coughlan, Susan Sarandon, and Aimee Lou Wood have signed a letter in support of Misan Harriman, chairman of the board of governors at London's Southbank Centre, who is under pressure to resign.
Background of the Controversy
Misan Harriman, who has served as chairman since 2021, is described on the Southbank Centre's website as an "outspoken activist" and a "photographer, creative director and cultural commentator." A letter published in The Times on Monday claimed his social media posts are "divisive" and damaging to the institution's reputation, urging him to step down.
The letter, signed by former Southbank Centre trustee David Kershaw, ex-BBC director Danny Cohen, historian Lord Roberts of Belgravia, and producers Leo Pearlman and Neil Blair, argued that Harriman's tenure risks undermining a British institution that received £18 million in government funding last year. It stated that his daily social media interventions push a "divisive political agenda" and potentially breach Charity Commission guidelines for trustees.
Counter-Letter Gains Momentum
In response, a counter-letter signed by over 21,000 people, including prominent figures from acting, music, and broadcasting, accused "rightwing newspapers" of conducting a "smear campaign" against Harriman. Notable signatories include Gary Lineker, Laura Whitmore, Louis Theroux, Annie Lennox, Hozier, Brian Cox, Hugh Bonneville, Eddie Marsan, and Dame Tracey Emin.
The Times article referenced a social media post by Harriman that allegedly suggested a newspaper "conspiracy" to frame the Golders Green knife attacks as solely about Jewish victims, ignoring a prior stabbing of a Muslim man on the same day.
Southbank Centre's Statement
A spokesperson for the Southbank Centre affirmed that all board members have the "right to exercise their freedom of expression within the law." The centre condemned all forms of antisemitism and discrimination, emphasising that personal views of board members do not represent the institution or affect its programming.
Harriman, born in Nigeria and educated in England, is recognised for documenting historic moments such as the Black Lives Matter movement and photographing high-profile celebrities. The Southbank Centre reiterated its commitment to inclusivity and welcoming all audiences, artists, and colleagues.
