Bob Vylan sue BBC for defamation over Glastonbury coverage

Frontman Pascal Robinson-Foster and bandmate Laurence George Wade each filed proceedings last week. They are represented by Belfast solicitor Darragh Mackin of Phoenix Law.

The legal action stems from the band’s performance at Glastonbury last summer, during which Mr Robinson-Foster led chants referring to the Israeli Defence Forces. The performance was livestreamed by the BBC, which later said the broadcast should have been cut and described the chants as “antisemitic sentiments” that were “utterly unacceptable”. The broadcaster also announced a review of its guidance on live broadcasts.

The band disputes that characterisation, arguing there is a distinction between criticism of the actions of a state’s armed forces and antisemitism.

In a statement, Bob Vylan said: “We have decided to take legal action against the BBC. In the immediate aftermath of our performance at Glastonbury 2025, The BBC wasted no time in placing labels upon us that did not, do not and never will fit.

“These responses are unacceptable. So seeing the opportunity to remind them the power of the people that they are attempting to silence, we had no choice but to take on this fight. In fact, we take great pleasure in serving them that reminder in court.”

The proceedings follow separate legal action by the band over media coverage of the Glastonbury performance.