Kneecap Dropped From TRNSMT Amid Political Controversy

Kneecap, an Irish hip-hop group, was removed from Glasgow's TRNSMT Festival after Police Scotland raised public safety concerns and festival organizers decided a significant security operation would be required due to the band's controversial reputation. Police Scotland clarified they had not been consulted before the act was booked and that the removal decision was made by festival organizers. The controversy follows band member Liam O'Hanna being charged by the Metropolitan Police for allegedly displaying a Hezbollah flag during a London gig and backlash over previous political statements made on stage. Scottish First Minister John Swinney also publicly called for Kneecap's removal, citing the unacceptable nature of their remarks. In response, Kneecap apologized to fans, scheduled a replacement show at Glasgow’s O2 Academy on July 8, and claimed their statements have been misrepresented as part of a coordinated smear campaign. The incident has sparked public debate about the boundaries of political expression at music festivals.