Performance axed after backlash over past remarks involving MPs and proscribed groups
The Eden Project has cancelled an upcoming performance by Irish rap group Kneecap, citing mounting controversy surrounding resurfaced footage of the group’s past performances.
The trio, known for their politically-charged lyrics and provocative stage presence, were set to perform on 4 July 2025 as part of the Eden Sessions — an annual concert series held at Cornwall’s iconic botanical gardens. This year’s lineup also features major acts such as Biffy Clyro, The Script and Texas.
Refunds Initiated for Ticket Holders
In an official statement, Eden Sessions confirmed the cancellation: “Eden Sessions Limited announced today that the Kneecap show at Eden Project scheduled for July 4 2025 has been cancelled. Ticket purchasers will be contacted directly and will be fully refunded.
The refund process will commence from Wednesday, April 30 2025. Refunds will be processed against the original payment cards used. Purchasers should allow six working days for funds to be received into their accounts.”
No specific reason for the cancellation was disclosed. However, the decision follows a growing public backlash stemming from controversial footage dating back to 2023 and 2024.
Controversial Footage Sparks Uproar
One clip from a November 2023 performance shows a member of the group declaring: “The only good Tory is a dead Tory. Kill your local MP.”
In another video, reportedly recorded during a 2024 show, a band member appears to chant: “Up Hamas, up Hezbollah.” Both Hamas and Hezbollah are proscribed terrorist organisations under UK law. Supporting them publicly is a criminal offence.
The Metropolitan Police has confirmed that it is reviewing the video footage to assess whether any laws were breached.
Kneecap Responds to Criticism
Following the fallout, Kneecap issued a public apology via Instagram, attempting to distance themselves from the implications of the comments.
The Belfast-based trio — Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, Naoise Ó Cairealláin, and JJ Ó Dochartaigh — stated they “reject any suggestion that we would seek to incite violence against any MP or individual.”
The group also claimed the comments had been “exploited and weaponised,” arguing that their message remains rooted in positivity: “Kneecap’s message has always been – and remains – one of love, inclusion, and hope.
This is why our music resonates across generations, countries, classes and cultures and has brought hundreds of thousands of people to our gigs. No smear campaign will change that.”
They went on to assert they have “never supported” Hamas or Hezbollah and extended an apology to the families of murdered MPs Sir David Amess and Jo Cox, adding: “We never intended to cause you hurt.”
The cancellation marks a major blow for the group, who have built a cult following for their unflinching stance on political issues. While Kneecap insists their message is one of unity and inclusion, recent events have shown the fine line between artistic expression and incitement.
Whether this impacts their wider tour plans or public reception remains to be seen, but for now, the Eden Project has made its stance clear.
