Why the BBC is halting ‘High‑Risk’ live broadcasts

Why the BBC is Halting ‘High-Risk’ Live Broadcasts

In the wake of Bob Vylan’s controversial Glastonbury performance on June 28, 2025, the BBC has implemented a major editorial shift: it will no longer live broadcast or stream any musical performance deemed “high risk.” This policy change follows widespread criticism of the broadcaster’s decision to air Bob Vylan’s set despite internal warnings.

What triggered the change?

Bob Vylan, flagged beforehand as a high-risk act, led festivalgoers in chants of “death, death to the IDF,” referencing the Israeli Defense Forces amid the Gaza conflict. Senior BBC staff raised concerns during the set, and although content warnings were occasionally displayed, the editorial team chose not to end the live stream. The BBC has since acknowledged that decision as a serious lapse in judgment. The performance drew backlash from the UK government, media regulators, and the public. The BBC later issued an apology, particularly addressing the Jewish community.

Internal fallout and accountability

Lorna Clarke, the BBC’s Director of Music, has temporarily stepped aside while an internal investigation takes place. The BBC board and Director-General Tim Davie have committed to full accountability and tighter oversight of future coverage. Chairman Samir Shah described the broadcast decision as an undeniable error in judgment, while Davie reaffirmed that antisemitism has no place in BBC content.

What the new policy entails

From now on, any act labeled high risk will not be aired live or streamed. The BBC will place editorial policy staff on-site at large-scale events and issue clearer protocols for cutting or delaying live feeds when needed.

Context and Broader Impact

Seven acts at Glastonbury appeared on the BBC’s high-risk list, yet the team mistakenly broadcast only Bob Vylan’s set after failing to enforce risk protocols. Another controversial act, Kneecap—whose member recently faced terror-related charges—did not receive a live broadcast. The UK Government and Culture Secretary have called for more stringent practices from the BBC. Internationally, Bob Vylan faced consequences including revoked U.S. visas, festival cancellations, and removal from agency rosters.

What’s Next for the BBC and Festival Coverage?

Area	Change
Editorial policy	Live streams of high-risk acts banned
Event staffing	On-site editorial support at major events
Guidance	Clear criteria for when to cut or delay broadcasts
Accountability	Internal review and potential disciplinary actions

This incident underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing artistic freedom with editorial responsibility, especially in live broadcast settings where teams must make decisions in real time.