Keir Starmer Slams Kanye West’s Wireless Festival Appearance Amid Antisemitism Concerns
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has voiced sharp criticism over the booking of Kanye West for London’s Wireless Festival, condemning the decision as “deeply concerning” given West’s history of antisemitic remarks and Nazi glorification.
Kanye West in New York June 13, 2025. Pic: AP
Kanye West Returns to UK Stage Despite Controversy
The 48-year-old rapper, who last performed in the UK headlining Glastonbury in 2015, is set to headline all three nights of the Wireless Festival this July. His return has sparked outrage due to his inflammatory actions since his last UK performance, including antisemitic posts on X, promotion of swastika imagery, and a song referencing Adolf Hitler.
Starmer Decries Antisemitism and Calls for Firm Action
In an official statement, Sir Keir Starmer emphasized: “It is deeply concerning that Kanye West has been booked to perform at Wireless despite his previous antisemitic remarks and celebration of Nazism. Antisemitism in any form is abhorrent and must be confronted clearly and firmly wherever it appears. Everyone has a responsibility to ensure Britain is a place where Jewish people feel safe and secure.”
Repeated Antisemitic Behavior Results in Bans and Corporate Fallout
West, also known as Ye, has faced multiple suspensions from X due to antisemitic content. In December 2022, his account was suspended after he posted an image combining a swastika with a Star of David. Following this, Adidas severed ties with West, donating over $150 million (£117 million) to anti-hate organizations.
In early 2023, West deleted his X account after widespread backlash for hateful posts targeting Jewish people, including declarations such as “I love Hitler” and “I’m a Nazi.” He further inflamed controversy by releasing a song titled Heil Hitler and promoting a TV advert that directed viewers to purchase swastika-themed merchandise.
Public Apology and Mental Health Disclosure
In January, West took out a full-page apology in the Wall Street Journal titled “To Those I’ve Hurt.” He asserted, “I am not a Nazi or an antisemite. I love Jewish people.”
West attributed his offensive behavior to a severe bipolar-1 disorder episode, stating: “In early 2025, I fell into a four-month-long manic episode of psychotic, paranoid and impulsive behaviour that destroyed my life. I lost touch with reality. Things got worse the longer I ignored the problem. I said and did things I deeply regret.”
He continued, “I regret and am deeply mortified by my actions in that state, and am committed to accountability, treatment, and meaningful change. It does not excuse what I did though.”
Wireless Festival Responds
Representatives from Wireless Festival have been approached for comment regarding the backlash over West’s headline booking.
