The BBC has apologized for broadcasting a punk duo’s performance live after it featured anti-Semitic chants, and announced changes to its policies on high-risk performances. The band, Bob Vylan, was initially deemed “high risk” by the BBC but despite this, they were allowed to go ahead with their set at Glastonbury festival.
The corporation has acknowledged that it failed to intervene when warnings appeared on screen during the performance, and has since decided not to broadcast live or stream high-risk performances in the future. Those overseeing such events will also receive more support and guidance on how to handle these situations.
In a statement, the BBC director general Tim Davie said he “deeply regretted” the incident and apologized for allowing it to happen. The BBC’s chair Samir Shah backed Davie’s actions, saying that the board supports him in addressing the issues.
The BBC is also taking disciplinary action against those responsible for the broadcast, but no further details have been released at this time. Bob Vylan has defended their performance, stating that they were not anti-Semitic and that the government was not doing enough to stop the conflict in Gaza.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/media/2025/jul/03/bbc-to-drop-high-risk-live-performances-after-bob-vylan-glastonbury-set