Three complaints to RTÉ over Kneecap's appearance on Late Late Show

Kneecap had originally agreed through its management not to wear badges in support of the ongoing conflict but contradicted this after their performance.

Tue, 27 Feb, 2024 - 16:11

Mairead Sheehy and Michelle McGlynn

Three formal complaints were made to RTÉ concerning Friday night's Late Late Show, after Belfast rappers Kneecap displayed badges in support of Palestine.

The group had originally agreed through its management not to wear badges supporting the ongoing conflict but contradicted this after their performance.

DJ Próvaí revealed a Palestinian football jersey while the other members put on watermelon badges which have become a symbol of the pro-Palestine movement.

In a statement, RTÉ said the group's management informed it that the men intended to wear badges supporting Palestine.

Producers then asked for the badges to be removed and explained the relevant guidelines.

"The producers were clear that, while it would have been a disappointment, Kneecap’s performance could not proceed if they wore the badges," a spokesperson said.

"After discussions with Kneecap’s management, they agreed that the badges would not be worn.

"However, during the live performance and the subsequent interview, the band chose not to comply with that agreement. They put badges on and revealed that one band member was wearing a Palestinian football jersey."