What started as a politically charged moment on stage has now turned into a broader debate about free speech, hate speech, and accountability in music.
Irish rap trio Kneecap have found themselves under fire after footage resurfaced of a 2023 London gig where one member appeared to shout to fans: “Kill your local MP.”
Now, months later, police say there will be no prosecution—but not without sparking national outcry.
No Legal Action Over Gig Comments
The Metropolitan Police said they had completed a “thorough investigation” after footage emerged in April of the group’s now-infamous November 2023 performance.
The clip showed Kneecap shouting inflammatory political slogans like “The only good Tory is a dead Tory.”
According to the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, while a range of offences were considered, any charges related to the comments were beyond the statutory time limit for prosecution.
The decision not to proceed was based on the timing and evidence available.
The MP’s Daughter Speaks Out
Among those most affected was Katie Amess, daughter of the late Conservative MP Sir David Amess, who was murdered in a terrorist attack in 2021.
She called the group’s comments “extremely dangerous” and “beyond belief.”
She added, “To say to kill anybody—what on earth are they thinking? There are absolute nutters out there who might take this seriously.”
Amess expressed hope that the group would realise the weight of their words and apologise sincerely.
Kneecap Issues a Public Apology
Following the backlash, Kneecap responded on Instagram, issuing a direct apology to the Amess and Cox families.
They claimed the footage was taken “out of all context” and added that “establishment figures” were trying to silence them by combing through hours of past material.
The group was firm in denying any actual incitement of violence:
“We do not, and have never, supported Hamas or Hezbollah… We condemn all attacks on civilians, always.”
They added: “An extract of footage… is now being weaponised, as if it were a call to action.”
More Allegations and Ongoing Investigations
This isn’t the only controversy surrounding Kneecap.
Member Liam Og O hAnnaidh (Mo Chara) is still being investigated after he allegedly displayed a Hezbollah flag and shouted “Up Hamas, up Hezbollah” during another gig last year.
He was formally charged with terrorism offences and appeared in court earlier this month.
Glastonbury Set Adds Fuel to the Fire
The group’s recent appearance at Glastonbury Festival also drew heat.
Although the BBC refused to broadcast Kneecap’s set, punk duo Bob Vylan—who performed instead—sparked outrage with chants of “Death to the IDF,” which were broadcast live on iPlayer.
In response, Sir Keir Starmer said he was “appalled,” branding the set “hate speech.”
He reiterated his stance that such performers should not be given public platforms and demanded answers from the BBC.
BBC Responds to Backlash
The BBC issued a statement explaining that warnings were given for “strong and discriminatory language” during the Bob Vylan set.
However, they confirmed they have no plans to make the performance available on demand.
U.S. Reportedly Considers Visa Revocation
As the ripple effects continue, reports suggest the U.S. State Department may revoke Kneecap’s visas ahead of their upcoming American tour, further limiting their international exposure.
Meanwhile, Avon and Somerset Police are currently reviewing Glastonbury performance footage to determine whether further action is needed.
Broader Debate: Where’s the Line?
This entire saga has reignited debate around freedom of expression versus incitement.
Some argue that performance art has long pushed boundaries, while others insist that invoking violence—even in artistic form—isn’t just tasteless, it’s dangerous.
With political tensions running high and the power of viral footage only growing, the question remains: Can provocative art cross a line too far, especially when it’s about real people and real-world consequences?