Irish rap group Kneecap has cancelled its upcoming US tour after member Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, known on stage as Mo Chara, faced a scheduling clash with his next court hearing in London. The decision affects 15 sold-out shows in October, disappointing thousands of fans but leaving the group determined to return with an even bigger tour once the legal matter is resolved.
Court Proceedings
Mr Ó hAnnaidh, 27, was charged in May for allegedly displaying a Hezbollah flag during a London performance in 2023. He denies the offence, and the band has clarified that it does not support Hamas or Hezbollah. The case, adjourned until 26 September, is currently focused on whether the charge was filed within the legal six-month limit. His defence argues that a procedural error invalidates the charge. Ó hAnnaidh remains on unconditional bail after two court appearances.
Tour Impact
The cancelled US tour was due to begin on 1 October in New York, with performances scheduled across multiple major cities. All dates had sold out. Despite the setback, Kneecap confirmed that Canadian shows in Vancouver and Toronto will proceed as planned. “Once we win our court case, which we will, we promise to embark on an even bigger tour,” the band assured supporters in a social media statement.
Ongoing Controversy
Kneecap has faced criticism in recent months over political messages displayed during performances. At Coachella in April, the trio’s pro-Palestinian messages led Sharon Osbourne to call for their US visas to be revoked. Their Glastonbury set in June drew political attention, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer calling it “inappropriate.” Although Avon and Somerset Police reviewed the incident, no further action was taken.
Who Are Kneecap?
Formed in 2017, Kneecap is an Irish-language rap trio made up of Mo Chara, Móglaí Bap, and DJ Próvaí. Known for provocative lyrics and imagery, the group has steadily grown in prominence. Their rise inspired a semi-fictionalised film starring Michael Fassbender, which won a BAFTA in February 2025. The group has also fought legal battles, including a successful challenge in 2024 against the UK government over the withdrawal of an arts grant.
While Kneecap’s US fans will have to wait, the group remains resolute in defending its legal case and sustaining its momentum. The cancellation underscores the challenges of balancing global touring with ongoing controversies and court proceedings, yet the trio has pledged to return with an even stronger presence once the case is behind them.
