entertainment
‘A house of cards’: how did Wireless festival get it so wrong on Kanye West?
Industry experts say booking of controversial US rapper was calculated risk that has implications for all festivals
TL;DR
- Wireless festival cancelled after sponsors like Pepsi and Diageo withdrew due to backlash over Ye's (Kanye West's) antisemitic comments.
- The UK government intervened by refusing Ye entry into the country, leading to the festival's cancellation.
- Industry experts described the booking as a 'house of cards' and a 'calculated risk' that failed due to underestimating public opinion.
- Melvin Benn, head of Festival Republic, initially defended the booking, citing Ye's bipolar disorder, but this defense was unconvincing to some.
- The cancellation leaves questions about liability for sunk costs and lost revenue, potentially impacting Festival Republic/Live Nation or Ye.
- Despite the Wireless cancellation, Ye's shows in Los Angeles and Mexico City proceeded, and his upcoming shows in the Netherlands, Madrid, and India are facing similar calls for cancellation.
- The incident may lead to increased scrutiny and higher insurance costs for artists with controversial pasts.
- Festival Republic claimed stakeholders were consulted, but sources indicate at least one sponsor was not, and found out via media.
- The future of Ye's bookings and the reputation of Wireless festival remain uncertain.