Kanye West could be barred from entering the United Kingdom after officials confirmed that his visa is now under review and could be revoked.
The rapper had recently been granted permission to enter the country ahead of his planned headlining performances at this summer’s Wireless Festival, but the Home Office said his status is being reconsidered following backlash over his history of antisemitic remarks.
“His permission to enter is currently being reviewed,” a spokesperson said.
Festival Republic managing director Melvin Benn said Ye’s visa had been approved only days ago, but admitted it may not last.
“He has a visa already issued to appear, to come into the country, and the Home Secretary may well rescind that today,” Benn said.
Ye has spent nearly two decades as one of music’s biggest stars, rising to fame with albums including The College Dropout, Graduation and My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy but in recent years, the rapper has sparked outrage with repeated antisemitic and pro-Nazi comments.
Amid the growing controversy, Ye released a statement saying he “would be grateful” to meet with members of the Jewish community in Britain.
“I know words aren’t enough,” he said. “I’ll have to show change through my actions.”
The Board of Deputies of British Jews said it would only meet with Ye if he first agreed to cancel his appearance at the Wireless Festival. Five major sponsors have already pulled out, including Pepsi, Diageo, and PayPal.