Brighton Pride has provoked outrage after announcing the Black Eyed Peas, who performed at Qatar World Cup, are set to headline the festival.
Many questioned why organisers would book the band after they performed in Qatar, known for its poor record of LGBTQ+ rights, with the choice described as "awful".
The Black Eyed Peas will headline on Saturday August 5, with Zara Larsson, Jax Jones and dylan performing too.
Other acts include Louise and B*Witched.
Making the announcement on Twitter yesterday, the event also promised "over 100 LGBTQ+ artists".
In response to the announcement, one person said: "The same Black Eyed Peas that played the Qatar World Cup??
"The same Qatar that openly discriminates against LGBTQ+ people, and they were happy to take their money?? REALLY????? Shameful & wrong."
Another asked: "How could you chose a headliner that played at the Qatar World Cup? Absolutely awful."
A third wrote: "Same Black Eyed Peas who like to play in Qatar????? Wow, talk about not reading the mood."
A fourth said: "I have never been so happy I didn't buy a ticket. The most disappointing lineup I've ever seen for pride, and didn't they just play at Qatar World Cup?"
Brighton headliners in the past have included Christina Aguilera, who played last year, Britney Spears and Kylie Minogue in 2019. Mariah Carey took to the stage in 2020.
One person, referencing previous performers said: "How have we gone from Britney, Kylie, Xtina to … Black Eyed Peas, WITHOUT Fergie??? Awful."
Others called for Zara Larsson to headline the festival rather than the Black Eyed Peas, calling her a "true icon and ally."
Earlier this month, organisers of Brighton Pride were forced to issue a statement after rumours circulated that Rihanna would perform, and the news would be confirmed after her Super Bowl performance.
However a spokesman addressed the rumours, saying: "We will not be making any announcements until later in the spring. Nothing is confirmed until we confirm it."
Black Eyed Peas are known for their hits I've Gotta Feeling and Where is The Love, and have made more than 80 million record sales.
Lead singer Fergie left in 2017, leaving Will.i.am, Apl.de.ap and Taboo to continue as a trio.
In a 2020 interview with Billboard magazine, the remaining members said Fergie left as she wanted to focus on being a mum to her son Axel.
Will.i.am said: "‘We love her, and she’s focusing on being a mom. That’s a hard job, and that’s what she really wants to do and we’re here for her… It’s really the way Fergie designed it, so we’re respecting her design."
Brighton Pride attracts crowds of about 250,000 people and last year celebrated its 30th anniversary.
The Mirror has approached Brighton Pride for comment.
