Bob Vylan says it is taking legal action against the BBC after the broadcaster livestreamed its Glastonbury performance last June. The controversy centres on chants captured during the set, including the line “death to the IDF,” which drew accusations of anti-Semitism from critics. The BBC later apologised for broadcasting the performance and said it “deeply” regrets the decision, describing the chants as “anti-Semitic sentiments” that were “utterly unacceptable.”
Bob Vylan, appearing as a duo, says the BBC is “placing labels” on them that do not fit, and characterises the dispute as a matter of defamation. Several outlets report that Bob Vylan’s statement frames the move as a response to what it sees as an attempt to silence them. Rolling Stone includes Bob Vylan’s comments about taking the fight forward, while other coverage focuses on the BBC’s apology and the legal action announcement. The reports do not provide further details on timing, jurisdiction, or the specific claims beyond defamation.
