Bob Vylan Discusses Controversial Glastonbury Performance with Louis Theroux

The frontman of the punk band Bob Vylan, known for his provocative performances, revealed that BBC staff praised their recent set at Glastonbury, despite the inclusion of a controversial chant. In a candid interview with documentary filmmaker Louis Theroux, Vylan reflected on the mixed reactions to his performance and the implications of his lyrics.

During the latest episode of The Louis Theroux Podcast, Vylan described how, following their set, he and his bandmates received enthusiastic feedback from BBC staff. “We come off stage. It’s normal. Nobody thought anything. Even staff at the BBC were like, ‘That was fantastic! We loved that!’,” he said.

The conversation turned to Vylan’s chant of “death, death to the IDF,” which sparked significant debate. Theroux questioned whether this chant was used to distract from more pressing issues, particularly the ongoing violence in Gaza. “You could argue that it gave them an opportunity to distract millions of people,” he stated, suggesting that the media might focus more on Vylan’s words than on the humanitarian crisis.

This interview is touted as Vylan’s first in-depth discussion since the Glastonbury performance, addressing topics such as the meaning behind the chant and the public’s response. When Theroux pressed Vylan for clarification on the phrase “death to the IDF,” Vylan redirected the question, prompting Theroux to reflect on his own privileges and discomfort with such violent rhetoric. “I don’t think there’s any chant that starts with death that I’d be especially comfortable with,” he admitted.

The podcast also touched on recent statistics from the Community Security Trust (CST) regarding antisemitic incidents in the UK. Theroux raised concerns about a reported increase in these incidents following the Glastonbury performance. Vylan acknowledged seeing the reports but questioned the accuracy of the CST’s definitions of antisemitism. “What are they counting as antisemitic incidents?” he asked, suggesting that the reporting lacked clarity on this critical issue.

Theroux then expressed the general nervousness within the Jewish community surrounding such discussions. “Is that in your head at all, the possibility of creating an unsafe atmosphere for the Jewish community?” he asked. Vylan responded, “Yeah, I don’t think I have created an unsafe atmosphere for the Jewish community,” emphasizing the need for a better understanding of the statistics in question.

Perhaps most strikingly, Vylan shared his views on Zionism, stating, “Ultimately the fight is against white supremacy, right? Like that is what the fight is against, and I think white supremacy is displayed so vividly in Zionism.” This comment has drawn mixed reactions, prompting discussions about the responsibilities of artists in conveying political messages.

In response to the podcast, Leo Pearlman, CEO of entertainment group Fulwell, criticized the decision to platform Vylan. He stated, “When you give a microphone to someone who proudly repeats a genocidal chant… you’re not probing hate, you’re amplifying it.” Pearlman expressed concerns that the media might inadvertently normalize hate speech, saying, “This is what happens when antisemitism becomes fashionable again.”

The episode of The Louis Theroux Podcast is now available for streaming on Spotify, providing a platform for discussions that delve into the complexities of free speech, artistic expression, and the societal implications of controversial statements.