The U.K.'s Wireless Festival has been canceled after British authorities revoked Kanye "Ye" West's visa, preventing the rapper from entering the country due to his history of antisemitic comments. West was slated to headline the event in July.
"I know words aren't enough," West said in a statement to the BBC on April 7. "I'll have to show change through my actions. If you're open, I'm here."
Following the government's decision, festival organizers announced the cancellation of the entire event, promising refunds to all ticket holders. In a statement, they acknowledged the impact of West's remarks, stating, "Antisemitism in all its forms is abhorrent, and we recognise the real and personal impact these issues have had."
Sponsors Pepsi and Diageo had already withdrawn their support for the festival after West's headliner announcement in March. Diageo cited concerns over the booking, highlighting the ongoing fallout from West's controversial statements.
Earlier this year, West publicly addressed his antisemitic remarks in an essay published as an ad in the Wall Street Journal, attributing his behavior to an undiagnosed brain injury and bipolar disorder. He expressed regret, stating, "I am not a Nazi or an antisemite. I love Jewish people," and committed to accountability and treatment.
The cancellation marks a significant setback for the festival, which had consulted stakeholders before booking West. Organizers noted that West hopes to engage with the U.K.'s Jewish community, but the government's stance has halted his plans and the event entirely.