Kneecap’s Glastonbury performance not live-streamed but available later on demand

Kneecap, a Belfast rap trio, performed at the Glastonbury Festival despite political controversies surrounding one of its members, Mo Chara. Mo Chara, who faces charges related to a terrorist offense, had been a subject of debate among politicians, including British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, who criticized the band’s presence at the festival. Ahead of their performance, the BBC announced that the show would not be live-streamed but would be made available on demand later. This decision followed concerns raised due to Mo Chara’s charge for supporting a proscribed terrorist organization. The Glastonbury audience, however, responded positively, booing news broadcasts that criticized Kneecap and cheering the group as they entered the stage. The controversy also sparked police presence and security measures surrounding the area where Kneecap performed. The BBC clarified that while it does not ban artists, it follows editorial guidelines when broadcasting performances. The show was expected to be available on BBC’s digital platforms later, along with over 90 other sets from the festival.