Oasis guitarist Noel Gallagher found himself in the thick of it with his comments about wheelchair users at this year’s Glastonbury Festival.
The musician, 55, performed at the popular music extravaganza on June 25, and stayed behind to watch others perform after his set, including British rapper Jamie T.
Speaking on “The Matt Morgan Podcast,” Gallagher said he was initially unable to get close to the stage where the VIPs usually watch performances.
Instead, he and his friends watched from the tent’s handicapped platform and admitted he didn’t realize its purpose at first.
After flashing his access pass, he told security, “This lot is with me and we walked up this platform – unbeknownst to us it was the disabled platform.”
The controversial performer continued: “I said, ‘See that pass, mate? It takes me everywhere.”
Laughing, Gallagher said he would tip a disabled fan out of his wheelchair to give his son a better view.
“I have to say, those handicapped cats have a great view of everything,” he added.
His comments sparked massive anger at British charity Scope, who criticized the musician on Twitter.
“Reports of Noel Gallagher’s behavior at Glastonbury were disturbing enough. But to hear him brag about his actions, while openly mocking the disabled, is beyond insulting.” the organization wrote:†
“Noel may belittle the experience of disabled music fans. But for many, the reality of attending live music and festivals can be stressful and upsetting.
“Accessible platforms at events are not for privileged rock stars and their friends. They are there so that people with disabilities can enjoy live music with fewer barriers.”
“Noel may belittle the experience of disabled music fans. But for many, the reality of attending live music and festivals can be stressful and upsetting,” added the charity.
Noel’s brother Liam also criticized him for the comments while apologizing on his behalf.
The Oasis frontman called his brother – who he has long feuded – the “C word” in a social media note.
Liam posted a series of photos from his latest performance, writing in the comment section, “I want to apologize on behalf of my family for the recent comments from little boys about people with disabilities. SORRY weren’t all cs LG x.”