Kneecap's Provocations Draw Sharp Rebuke from Punk Icon John Lydon

08-05-2025


John Lydon, the iconic frontman of the Sex Pistols, has publicly criticized the Irish hip-hop trio Kneecap for their controversial statements, including a call to 'kill your local MP.' During an appearance on ITV's 'Good Morning Britain,' Lydon expressed his disdain for the group's violent rhetoric, stating, 'If you're advocating the death of another human being, then you have no cause whatsoever. You are my enemy from here on in for the rest of your mediocre existence.'

Lydon's comments come as Kneecap faces scrutiny from UK counter-terrorism officers over the remarks made during a 2023 gig in London. The group has since apologized, claiming their words were taken out of context and denying any intent to incite violence. However, Lydon remained unconvinced, suggesting that Kneecap might 'need a bloody good kneecapping,' a remark that underscores his frustration with their approach.

The controversy has sparked a broader discussion about the line between provocative art and harmful rhetoric. Lydon, no stranger to controversy himself, pointed out the irony of being both criticized and celebrated by the establishment during the Sex Pistols' heyday. He dismissed any comparison between his band's anti-establishment stance and Kneecap's recent actions, emphasizing the importance of not making enemies of fellow human beings.

As the debate continues, Kneecap's future remains uncertain, with their statements under investigation. Meanwhile, Lydon's outspoken criticism serves as a reminder of the punk legend's enduring influence and his willingness to speak his mind, even when it means calling out those who might see themselves as his successors.

Other news

Families Demand Inquiry Into 1994 Chinook Crash With 47,000-Signature Petition

{'$date': '2025-10-20T11:49:57.546Z'}


Families of the 29 victims killed in the 1994 Chinook helicopter crash are escalating their decades-long fight for answers, preparing to deliver a petition with more than 47,000 signatures to Downing Street demanding a public inquiry. The Chinook Justice Campaign has published 110 "critical questions" they want answered about the tragedy that claimed the lives of 25 intelligence experts and four special forces crew members when the aircraft crashed on the Mull of Kintyre on June 2, 1994.

The campaign comes after Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer rejected calls for a judge-led inquiry into the incident, prompting families to declare they will "see the UK government in court." Among those delivering the petition on Tuesday are brothers Andy and Matt Tobias from Watford, whose father John Tobias was killed in the crash. The petition delivery will be accompanied by an attempt to deliver a letter directly to the Ministry of Defence.

Central to the families' concerns are questions about mission authorization, aircraft selection, and whether those on board were properly warned of risks. The campaign has gained momentum amid revelations that key documents related to the crash have been sealed until 2094—a century after the incident occurred. David Hill, technical expert for the Chinook Justice Campaign, characterized the government's position as "a betrayal by the state of them and their loved ones."

The crash investigation has followed a contentious path over the past three decades. Initial findings blamed pilot error for the tragedy, but this conclusion was overturned in 2011. The continuing secrecy surrounding the incident has drawn criticism from campaigners who argue it "undermines trust not only in the MoD but in the government itself." As families prepare to confront the government directly, the case represents one of Britain's longest-running military accountability battles.