The BBC will no longer live-broadcast performances by artists flagged as high risk, following backlash over Bob Vylan’s Glastonbury set, which featured chants of “death, death to the IDF”. The move comes amid growing scrutiny over the broadcaster’s editorial standards, with senior leadership pledging reforms and critics calling for accountability after what’s been labelled a serious lapse in judgment.

In a scathing apology, director‑general Tim Davie admitted:

“I deeply regret that such offensive and deplorable behaviour appeared on the BBC … in particular to Jewish colleagues and the Jewish community,” underscoring a new zero‑tolerance stance on antisemitism."

BBC chair Samir Shah backed Davie, acknowledging it was an “error of judgment” and pledging full accountability.

Before Glastonbury, the BBC had already flagged Bob Vylan and six other performers as “high risk”, yet believed they could broadcast with real‑time warnings rather than delays. That approach failed, the stream was monitored, warnings were issued, but no feed cut when the controversial chants took place.

Culture Secretary, Lisa Nandy, condemned the editorial lapses, stating that multiple errors raised concerns about leadership at the broadcaster. In response, the BBC confirmed it will no longer live‑stream any act deemed high‑risk, and will supply event teams with clearer guidance and stronger oversight. Disciplinary action is also reportedly underway against staff responsible for the coverage failures.

Bob Vylan have defended their performance, asserting they oppose military violence, not Jewish people, and accusing the government of silencing them on Gaza. They said:

“We are not for the death of Jews, Arabs or any other race or group of people. [We] are not the story. We are a distraction from the story. And whatever sanctions we receive will be a distraction. The government doesn’t want us to ask why they remain silent in the face of this atrocity? To ask why they aren’t doing more to stop the killing? To feed the starving?”

‍

‍

Meanwhile, Avon and Somerset Police are investigating potential public‑order offences linked to both Bob Vylan and Irish act Kneecap. UTA, the band’s US agency, dropped them and their US visas were revoked.