Boy George Parts Ways With Record Label Amid Pro-israel Song Controversy
WHO:
The Independent - Boy George, 65, is a singer and was set to play the role of King Herod in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s production of Jesus Christ Superstar.
The Independent - Paul Kemsley is Boy George’s manager.
WHAT:
The Independent - Boy George released a song titled "עוד נרקוד" (translated to "We Will Dance Again") which defends Israel’s military action in Palestine.
The Independent - Boy George quit the production of Jesus Christ Superstar due to backlash from his song.
The Independent - The song includes lyrics that state: “You say genocide, I say war/ When you’re attacked, that’s what the army’s for.”
The Independent - A two-year United Nations investigation found that Israel has committed genocide in Gaza, with over 73,000 Palestinians killed since the start of the war.
WHERE:
The Independent - The Nova music festival in Israel was the site of an attack by Hamas that resulted in the deaths of 1,200 people.
WHEN:
The Independent - Boy George was scheduled to perform from August 3 to August 15 in Jesus Christ Superstar.
The Independent - The attack by Hamas occurred on October 7, 2023.
WHY:
The Independent - Boy George stated he comes “from a place of peace” and expressed compassion for both Palestinians and Israelis.
The Independent - Boy George felt compelled to defend the Jewish community and expressed his emotional response to the events surrounding the Nova music festival attack.
HOW:
The Independent - Boy George's decision to quit the production was made “with the utmost respect for the producers, the creative team and the entire company.”
(UPDATED August 2, 2026 04:26 UTC)
Boy George, the 65-year-old singer, has decided to quit his role as King Herod in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s production of Jesus Christ Superstar, which he was set to perform from August 3 to August 15. His departure follows the release of his song "עוד נרקוד," which defends Israel’s military actions in Palestine and includes controversial lyrics, prompting backlash. Boy George expressed that his decision was made with respect for the production team, while also sharing his compassion for both Palestinians and Israelis amidst the ongoing conflict.