The BBC has issued an apology and pledged a review of its live broadcast guidelines after rapper Bob Vylan made antisemitic comments during his Glastonbury 2025 performance, streamed live from the West Holts stage on BBC iPlayer.

“Millions of people tuned in to enjoy Glastonbury this weekend across the BBC’s output,” the broadcaster said in a statement. “But one performance within our livestreams included comments that were deeply offensive. The BBC respects freedom of expression but stands firmly against incitement to violence. The antisemitic sentiments expressed by Bob Vylan were utterly unacceptable and have no place on our airwaves.”

The BBC said it made an on-the-spot decision to continue the livestream with an on-screen warning, in accordance with its editorial guidelines. However, it has now acknowledged that it should have halted the broadcast entirely.

“The team were dealing with a live situation but with hindsight we should have pulled the stream during the performance. We regret this did not happen,” the statement continued.

The performance has not been made available on-demand, and Glastonbury organisers have also condemned the artist’s remarks.

“In light of this weekend, we will look at our guidance around live events so we can be sure teams are clear on when it is acceptable to keep output on air,” the BBC said, promising stronger oversight at future festivals.

Bob Vylan has not publicly responded to the backlash at time of writing.

Erizia Rubyjeana

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