US rapper Kanye West, now known as Ye, has offered to meet members of the British Jewish community following widespread criticism over his past antisemitic remarks. The 48-year-old’s statement comes as sponsors Pepsi and Diageo withdrew support from the Wireless Festival in London, where West is scheduled to headline in July as part of his European comeback tour.
In an advertisement in the Wall Street Journal titled “To Those I’ve Hurt,” West acknowledged his past actions and said he wants to make amends. “My only goal is to come to London and present a show of change, bringing unity, peace, and love through my music,” he said. “I would be grateful for the opportunity to meet with members of the Jewish community in the UK in person.”
West has previously faced outrage for releasing a song titled “Heil Hitler” in May 2025 and for other antisemitic statements, which he attributed to his bipolar disorder. British ministers, including Wes Streeting, condemned this as “appalling,” and Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the booking “deeply concerning.”
Phil Rosenberg, president of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, said the community would consider meeting West only if he pulled out of the Wireless Festival and demonstrated genuine remorse. “The appropriate place to test this sincerity is not on the main stage at the Wireless Festival,” he said.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has faced calls to bar West from entering the UK, with authorities reportedly reviewing his permission to travel. His European tour has already stirred controversy, with Marseille officials in France stating he is “not welcome” for a concert in June.
