BBC's High-Risk Gig Policy Overhaul

The BBC will cease broadcasting high-risk music acts after critics condemned its airing of Bob Vylan's controversial performance at Glastonbury. The punk-rap duo's anti-Israel chants spurred a police investigation. The BBC deemed the actions antisemitic and issued an apology, enforcing stricter broadcasting policies henceforth.


Devdiscourse News Desk | London | Updated: 03-07-2025 19:18 IST | Created: 03-07-2025 19:18 IST
BBC's High-Risk Gig Policy Overhaul
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In a response to controversy, the BBC announced it would halt live broadcasts or streams of music gigs classified as 'high risk.' The decision comes after airing Bob Vylan's provocative performance at Glastonbury, where anti-Israel chants brought significant criticism.

British police have initiated an investigation into potential public order offences following the broadcast, prompting Prime Minister Keir Starmer to admonish the BBC. Media watchdog Ofcom also queried the broadcaster's actions. BBC executives labeled the chants antisemitic and expressed deep regret, amending their broadcasting policies.

Bob Vylan, a band known for addressing societal issues through their music, had been flagged by the BBC alongside six other risky acts. Despite this, live footage was not cut during the festival, an error the broadcaster admits. Moving forward, measures will be implemented to ensure accountability for such editorial oversights.

(With inputs from agencies.)

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