Wireless Festival boss defends Kanye West appearance

Wireless Festival Director Backs Kanye West’s Performance Amid Controversy

Manager Melvin Benn Emphasizes Forgiveness in Response to Criticism

Melvin Benn, the managing director of Wireless Festival, has expressed support for Kanye West’s inclusion as a headliner, urging public leniency toward the rapper. His remarks came after a wave of criticism and sponsor departures, including Pepsi, following West’s July lineup announcement. Benn highlighted West’s past actions, such as the release of the song “Heil Hitler” and the sale of swastika-emblazoned T-shirts, which sparked controversy last year. West later issued an apology, citing his bipolar disorder as a contributing factor.

“Forgiveness and second chances are increasingly rare in today’s divided society,” Benn stated, reflecting on his own commitment to compassion. He emphasized that his stance is rooted in personal experience, having witnessed mental health struggles in a close family member over the past 15 years.

Benn, who resides on a kibbutz from the 1970s, described himself as a “deeply committed anti-fascist.” He added, “What Ye has said about Jews and Hitler in the past remains abhorrent to me, as it does to the Jewish community, the prime minister, and others who have spoken out—especially now, when he claims to have changed.” The festival director noted that West’s appearance is not about promoting extremist views but about performing music that is widely enjoyed and currently popular on radio and streaming platforms.

The UK government is evaluating West’s eligibility to enter the country. Benn invited the public to reconsider their immediate reactions, saying: “I would ask people to reflect on their swift judgments of disgust and extend forgiveness and hope, as I have chosen to do.” The article is being updated with more details, and readers are advised to refresh the page for the latest updates. The BBC News App and X account @BBCBreaking offer real-time alerts for breaking news.