The BBC has come under heavy criticism for its decision to broadcast a Glastonbury performance by punk-rap duo Bob Vylan, during which lead artist Bobby Vylan led chants of “Free, free Palestine” and “Death, death to the IDF”, prompting concerns over discriminatory language and editorial judgment.
Although the BBC included on-screen warnings about strong and discriminatory language during the live iPlayer stream, critics have argued that these were insufficient and failed to respond adequately to the unfolding situation. The footage has since been removed from the BBC’s streaming services, yet concerns persist about the editorial decision to allow the performance to be broadcast live at all.
The Equalities Minister said the BBC had overstepped the mark and should have halted the transmission once it became apparent what was being said on stage, arguing that continuing to show the set live undermined efforts to maintain neutrality and responsible broadcasting. While she did not suggest institutional bias on the conflict in Gaza, she questioned the broadcaster’s response time and preparedness for politically charged content.
Bob Vylan’s set took place on the West Holts stage immediately before the band Kneecap, whose performance was not aired live due to previous controversies over political statements, raising further questions about consistency in editorial decisions.
Bobby Vylan, who identifies as a “violent punk”, made provocative remarks during the set, including a defence of using violent rhetoric to push political messages, which drew concern from political figures and media professionals alike.
A former Channel 4 news executive stated that the BBC could have avoided broadcasting the controversial content if it had planned more thoroughly, suggesting that a politics producer should have been present to advise on sensitive material and that a backup feed should have been available to switch away from the performance.
She noted that while music coverage does not require the same level of impartiality as news content, the decision to continue broadcasting made the BBC the focus of controversy, diverting attention from the conflict in Gaza itself.
Meanwhile, Bobby Vylan defended his actions on social media, reaffirming his stance and urging political engagement from younger generations. The episode has reignited debate over how public broadcasters manage politically charged performances and the limits of expression on high-profile stages.