Adrian Dunbar Defends Kneecap Amid BBC Streaming Controversy and Terrorism Charge Dismissal
August 6, 2025
Despite the lack of a live stream, Kneecap's performance was later made available on BBC iPlayer.
Adrian Dunbar, a Northern Irish actor, recently attended a Kneecap concert and voiced his support for the band, criticizing the BBC's decision not to live stream their Glastonbury performance.
The BBC initially refrained from streaming Kneecap's Glastonbury set due to political pressure, including calls from Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer for the band to be removed from the lineup.
An investigation into Kneecap's Glastonbury performance concluded without any further action against the band.
The band faced scrutiny after a member was charged with a terrorism-related offense, but following an investigation, Avon and Somerset Police decided to take no further action.
Dunbar emphasized that public perceptions of Kneecap have been unfairly shaped by the recent terrorism charge against one of its members.
The group claims they are victims of a smear campaign linked to their vocal support for Palestine and criticism of Israel's actions in Gaza.
The controversy surrounding Kneecap intensified after a video surfaced in April showing a band member making inflammatory remarks, leading to the charge against O hAnnaidh for allegedly displaying a Hezbollah flag.
In light of recent controversies, Kneecap has issued apologies to the families of murdered MPs and clarified their stance against Hamas and Hezbollah, both of which are banned in the UK.
Kneecap, known for their provocative lyrics and advocacy for the Irish language, has faced backlash, including a ban from entering Hungary for a music festival and the cancellation of several shows.
Summary based on 17 sources
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Sources

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