RAPPER ABUSES FARAGE ON AIR AND BBC CALLS IT 'POIGNANT'

By the Editorial Team · Tuesday, September 1, 2026

The BBC received backlash after airing British rapper Loyle Carner’s Reading Festival performance, during which he used explicit language to criticize Nigel Farage and advocate for Palestine. Critics argue this reflects bias and question the broadcaster's funding, while supporters highlight its role in presenting diverse artistic and political voices.

The BBC has faced criticism after broadcasting a performance by British rapper Loyle Carner at the Reading Festival, during which he rapped the phrase “f*** Nigel Farage and free Palestine.” The recording, aired on BBC iPlayer, was described by the broadcaster as a “poignant, uplifting set” from the twice-Mercury-nominated artist. The video carries warnings of strong and discriminatory language but does not specifically reference Carner’s remarks about the Reform leader.

Carner, 31, whose real name is Benjamin Gerard Coyle-Larner, performed before an enthusiastic crowd on the festival’s main stage on Sunday. After delivering the controversial line, he was seen laughing and covering his mouth, while the audience responded with cheers and whistles. This was not the first time Carner has publicly criticised Nigel Farage; in February, he expressed his dislike for the politician during the Brit Awards. Carner, from south London, has used his music platform to address social issues such as male suicide and has been vocal about political topics, including previous demonstrations of opposition to high-profile political figures.

In addition to Carner’s performance, Northern Irish rap group Kneecap closed out the festival, employing a headline slot to call Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham a derogatory term following his rejection of a referendum on a united Ireland. Kneecap also expressed support for Palestine during their set, chanting “free Palestine” and displaying a Palestinian flag on stage. Their performance has not been made available on BBC iPlayer.

The controversy echoes a previous incident last year when the BBC faced backlash for livestreaming punk duo Bob Vylan’s Glastonbury set, in which they chanted “death to the IDF” (Israel Defence Forces), prompting an official apology from the broadcaster.

Critics of the recent broadcast accused the BBC of bias and inappropriate endorsement of politically charged language. Some viewers argued that the public broadcaster should reconsider its funding model, with calls to make it a subscription service. Supporters contend that the broadcaster is providing a platform for diverse artistic and political expression and point to the event’s extensive coverage featuring numerous artists.

The BBC has stated that it offered broad coverage of the Reading Festival, showcasing a wide range of performances. Both the corporation and Nigel Farage did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.