During the controversial Glastonbury performance by punk rap duo Bob Vylan, hundreds of BBC staff were on site, including individuals empowered to cut the livestream. This was confirmed by the BBC Director-General, Tim Davie, following the incident where the frontman led the crowd in chanting “death, death to the IDF (Israeli Military Force).” The offensive content aired live prompted a police investigation and widespread criticism.
In a response to Dame Caroline Dinenage MP, Chairwoman of the Culture Media and Sport Committee, Davie revealed that 550 BBC personnel were working at the festival: 328 within BBC Studios covering technical and production roles, 35 from BBC News, and 187 across other public service functions such as presenters, engineers, and compliance staff. He acknowledged failures in the broadcast that allowed such language to be aired and issued a formal apology to viewers and particularly the Jewish community.
Davie emphasized swift action to prevent repeat occurrences and committed to holding those responsible accountable. The BBC is also reviewing and potentially tightening its live broadcast guidelines to avoid similar incidents in the future.
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Following the backlash, Bob Vylan—comprised of frontman Bobby Vylan (real name Pascal Robinson-Foster) and drummer Bobbie Vylan—has been dropped by their agency, United Talent Agency (UTA), which removed them from its website. They have also been canceled from several shows, including a US tour after visa revocations. The duo posted on Instagram explaining their withdrawal from a European tour with Gogol Bordello, citing logistical difficulties but affirming plans for upcoming festival and headline appearances.
Last week, during a sold-out London show, Bobby Vylan expressed solidarity with the Palestinian people, praising their resilience amid adversity. The controversy continues to resonate, highlighting tensions around political expression and live broadcast responsibilities.