The UK government has blocked Kanye West from entering the country to perform at Wireless Festival in London after refusing his travel application on the grounds that his presence would “not be conducive to the public good”, according to the Home Office.
West, who is scheduled to headline the festival in Finsbury Park, applied for entry via an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), but officials confirmed the request was denied following ongoing controversy surrounding his past antisemitic and pro-Nazi remarks.
This follows mounting political and public pressure over his planned appearance, with senior UK figures including Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer previously describing antisemitism as “abhorrent” and calling for firm action.
The decision comes amid sustained backlash against West, who has faced criticism in recent years for a series of offensive statements and actions, including the release of a song titled “Heil Hitler” and the sale of swastika-themed merchandise.
Earlier on Tuesday, West said he would be “grateful” to meet members of the Jewish community in the UK, stating he wanted to demonstrate change through his actions. The Board of Deputies of British Jews said it would be willing to meet him, but only if he withdrew from performing at the festival.
The Home Office decision effectively removes that possibility, taking the final decision out of the hands of festival organisers.
Wireless Festival organisers have not yet issued a public response. Festival Republic managing director Melvin Benn had earlier suggested the Home Secretary could intervene, acknowledging that West’s previous comments were “abhorrent”.
Jewish groups, including the Campaign Against Antisemitism, had also called for West to be prevented from performing, questioning the sincerity of his recent apology.
Political figures across parties had urged action, with Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp calling for a visa refusal and other leaders including Ed Davey and Nigel Farage also criticising the booking.
The outcome now confirms that West will not be able to travel to the UK for the festival, as authorities maintain their position following the controversy.