The punk duo Bob Vylan has initiated legal proceedings against the BBC, following controversy over their performance at last year’s Glastonbury Festival. Comprising drummer Wade Laurence George, known as Bobbie Vylan, and vocalist Pascal Robinson-Foster, who performs as Bobby Vylan, the group appeared on the West Holts Stage, where Robinson-Foster led the audience in chants of “death, death to the IDF,” referencing the Israel Defence Forces.

The BBC faced criticism for livestreaming the set and subsequently acknowledged an error in its decision to broadcast the performance. The broadcaster issued an apology for what it described as the band’s “offensive and deplorable behaviour.” In response, Bob Vylan announced on social media that they are pursuing legal action against the BBC in the High Court in Ireland, accusing the broadcaster of misrepresenting them with unfair labels.

The duo’s statement criticised the BBC as a publicly funded institution, suggesting it has failed to serve the public interest and provide unbiased news and information. Bob Vylan said they felt compelled to take legal action, concluding their message with calls to “Free Palestine” and support for the “Filton 25,” a group of pro-Palestine activists.

This is not the band’s first legal challenge related to their stage performances. In December, they filed defamation claims against Irish broadcaster RTE, which had accused Bob Vylan of antisemitic chanting during a show in Dublin. The controversy surrounding the duo intensified following their Glastonbury performance, as they and Belfast rap group Kneecap—who performed subsequently and also faced police investigations for onstage remarks—were dropped from several festivals and a planned U.S. tour.

The BBC declined to comment on the ongoing legal matter. The case highlights broader tensions around freedom of expression and political statements in live music settings, as well as the responsibilities of broadcasters who stream festival performances to large audiences.