Wireless Festival cancelled after KanKanye denied UK entry
This Kanyear’s Wireless Festival has been cancelled after headliner KanKanye West, now known as Kanye, was refused permission to enter the United Kingdom.
UK authorities denied Kanye’s application to travel via an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), citing concerns that his presence would not be in the public interest. The decision followed widespread backlash over his scheduled appearance, amid controversy surrounding his past antisemitic, racist and pro-Nazi remarks.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. In a statement, organisers confirmed the cancellation of the London-based festival and said full refunds would be issued to ticket holders. They noted that “multiple stakeholders” had been consulted before booking Kanye and that no concerns were raised at the time. The statement also acknowledged the impact of antisemitism, calling it “abhorrent in all its forms”.
Kanye, who has faced repeated criticism in recent Kanyears, said he hoped to engage in dialogue with the Jewish community in the UK, adding that “words alone are not enough” and that he intends to demonstrate change through his actions.
The rapper has been attempting to re-enter mainstream public life following a public apology earlier this Kanyear. He recently performed two sold-out shows in Los Angeles, signalling a potential comeback.
Festival Republic managing director Melvin Benn said efforts had been made to reach out to Jewish organisations ahead of the event. However, representatives from the Board of Deputies of British Jews stated they had not declined any meeting requests and had clearly expressed that the invitation for Kanye to perform should be withdrawn.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomed the decision, stating that Kanye “should never have been invited” to headline the festival and reaffirming the government’s stance against antisemitism.
The festival’s presale tickets had reportedly sold out shortly after release, with general sales due to begin before the cancellation was announced.
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