Boy George Withdraws From London Show After Backlash Over Pro-Israel Song

British singer Boy George has withdrawn from a prestigious London production where he was set to portray King Herod, following public controversy and social media attacks over his new song "We Will Dance Again." The song is a tribute to the victims of the Nova party massacre and expresses support for Israel. His manager and longtime confidant, Paul Kemsley, announced on Instagram that George stepped down to keep the focus on the show.

In the song, George sings, "You say genocide, I say war / When you are attacked, that's what the army is for," criticizing online propaganda and artists opposing Israel. Despite receiving harsh insults online, George remains unbothered. Kemsley described his stance as "a brave statement," emphasizing that George is unafraid to voice his beliefs.

Pro-Palestinian activists accused George of defending "genocide" and using his platform to promote a pro-Israel political message, labeling him a "Zionist" as an insult. Conversely, many in the Jewish community and in Israel have praised his resilience and support for Israel.

This is not George's first public defense of Israel. In 2017, he performed in Tel Aviv despite BDS pressure and calls for cancellation. In 2020, he collaborated on a Hebrew-English song with Israeli artist Asaf Goren. He has also spoken out against attempts to boycott Israel in music contests, criticized anti-Semitic singer Roger Waters for his remarks against Israel and the victims of October 7 attacks, and publicly supported other artists who faced criticism for backing Israel.

Kemsley told Jewish Journal, "He has made a brave statement. He is absorbing online abuse but stands firmly behind his words. An artist must be able to express themselves. I will always support and love him."