April 07, (THEWILL) — Kanye West has said he “would be grateful” to meet members of the Jewish community in the UK, as controversy continues over his headline booking at Wireless Festival.
In a statement released on April 7, 2026, the rapper, now known as Ye, said he had been “following the conversation around Wireless and wanted to address it directly”.
“My only goal is to come to London and present a show of change, bringing unity, peace, and love through my music”, he stated.
West added that he is willing to meet members of the community “to listen”, saying: “I know words aren’t enough – I’ll have to show change through my actions. If you’re open, I’m here.”
The artist has faced widespread criticism in recent years for antisemitic and pro-Nazi remarks, including releasing a song titled “Heil Hitler” and selling swastika-themed merchandise.
In January, West issued a public apology in a full-page statement in The Wall Street Journal, saying he is “not a Nazi or an anti-Semite” and expressing regret over his past behaviour. He attributed his actions to bipolar disorder.
Despite the apology, backlash over his scheduled appearance at the London festival has continued.
Major sponsors, including Pepsi, Rockstar Energy, Diageo, and PayPal, have withdrawn from the event, while politicians have criticised the booking. Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the festival booking as “deeply concerning”.
Melvin Benn, managing director of Festival Republic, defended the decision to book West as a headliner.
“Forgiveness and giving people a second chance are becoming a lost virtue in this ever-increasing divisive world”, he said.
Benn added: “We are not giving him a platform to extol opinions of whatever nature, only to perform the songs that are currently played on the radio stations in our country and the streaming platforms in our country and listened to and enjoyed by millions.”
“I would ask people to reflect on their instant comments of disgust at the likelihood of him performing (as was mine) and offer some forgiveness and hope to him as I have decided to do.”
However, Jewish groups have criticised the stance. Phil Rosenberg, President of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, said the statement “will not reassure many within the Jewish or other communities”.
The UK government is also reviewing whether West should be allowed to enter the country ahead of the July event.
Evi Ben Ezaga writes on entertainment, culture, and trending stories.
