Johnny Marr, the legendary guitarist known for his work with The Smiths, has recently opened up about two significant and controversial topics in the music world. From reflecting on his decision to reject a lucrative reunion offer from The Smiths to standing firmly behind Irish rap group Kneecap amid calls for their removal from the Glastonbury Festival lineup, Marr’s views reveal a musician deeply engaged with both his past and present political and artistic convictions.
Looking back, Marr discussed The Smiths’ split in 1987, a decision he described as "untenable" but not impulsive. At the time, Marr was only 24 years old, facing an uncertain future in the music industry. He shared on the podcast Stick to Football, "It was horrible, because I was so young, it was an emotional decision." Yet, despite the pain, Marr has no regrets about the band’s dissolution. "Funnily enough, I don't, no. It was untenable, really, and it wasn't an impulsive decision, either," he said, emphasizing the thoughtful nature of the choice.
He elaborated that the decision was not driven by career concerns but by a need to assess what was next in life. "I looked at it for quite a long time and I was really about it, really. It certainly wasn't a career decision because I had to really look at what's next." Marr also reflected on the personal side, mentioning his grown-up children and hoping they would make similarly courageous decisions if faced with comparable challenges. "At the age of 61 now, I look back and go, 'Ballsy'," he admitted.
In 2024, Marr revealed that The Smiths received an "eye-watering" offer to reunite and tour worldwide throughout 2025, made by AEG Entertainment Group. While Morrissey accepted the offer, Marr decisively declined. He told host Gary Neville, "We got made an offer really recently, in fact, but yeah, I said no. I'm not an idiot, the vibe's not right. Bad vibe." This statement clarifies previous confusion, as Morrissey had claimed Marr ignored the offer, whereas Marr confirmed he explicitly said no.
The reunion offer and its rejection highlight the ongoing complexities within the band’s legacy. Marr also addressed Morrissey’s claims about trademarks related to the band, explaining these were necessary "to prevent third parties from profiting from the band’s name," further underscoring the practical considerations behind the scenes.
While Marr’s reflections on The Smiths’ past are revealing, his current political stance is equally notable, especially in light of his vocal support for Irish rap group Kneecap and their inclusion in the Glastonbury Festival lineup. Kneecap, an Irish trio known for their politically charged lyrics and activism, have faced backlash and calls for removal from the festival due to their controversial actions and statements.
The Board of Deputies of British Jews cited the group’s inflammatory comments, including a 2023 incident where they urged fans to "Kill your local MP" during a gig. Additionally, the group has been accused of supporting Hamas and Hezbollah, both designated terrorist organizations by the UK government, particularly after displaying the Hezbollah flag at a performance. Kneecap’s producer, Toddla T, however, argues that the real issue is the group's outspoken support for Palestine amid ongoing conflict and suffering in Gaza.
Toddla T revealed that a "private and confidential" letter was sent to those responsible for booking Glastonbury acts, demanding Kneecap’s removal. The letter was reportedly led by a "very systemically powerful music agent" and signed by 30 influential figures within the music industry. Toddla T described this as a "coordinated attempt by 30 members of the musical elite, people with systemic influence, to silence the voices of three working-class artists from Belfast." He emphasized that the dispute is not merely about a festival slot but about the broader issue of Palestine and the "ongoing genocide we are witnessing."
Johnny Marr has publicly supported Kneecap and their right to perform at Glastonbury. In an Instagram post, he reminded followers that the festival has always been a space for free expression and political activism. "Glastonbury has always had a political aspect. It was founded as a place of free expression and political activism," Marr wrote. He also noted his own history with the festival, recalling that he agreed to play there with The Smiths in 1984 "purely because to do so at the time was a political act."
Marr’s political stance has remained consistent over the decades. He stated, "We are living through very troubling times, but for anyone who's been interested in me or my music over the last 40 years, I feel like my political stance has been very clear." He added, "Oppression fears artistic expression," expressing his respect for musicians who use their platforms to speak out against injustice and promote compassion and equality. Marr stands firmly with "fellow musicians who call for an immediate end to the atrocities and a free Palestine."
Meanwhile, Kneecap member Mo Chara was recently granted unconditional bail after being charged with a terror offence linked to his display of the Hezbollah flag. Despite the controversy, the group’s performance at Glastonbury on June 28, 2025, is still scheduled to proceed.
Johnny Marr’s outspoken nature is well documented. He previously criticized former US President Donald Trump for using The Smiths’ song "Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want" during political rallies, bluntly stating, "Consider this shit shut down right now." Marr’s willingness to confront political and social issues head-on, whether related to his own band or broader cultural debates, marks him as a musician who sees his art as inseparable from activism.
As The Smiths’ legacy continues to evoke strong emotions and debates, Marr remains clear about his path. Rejecting a reunion that felt inauthentic and standing by artists who challenge the status quo, he embodies a commitment to artistic integrity and political conscience. Whether reflecting on past decisions or engaging with current controversies, Johnny Marr’s voice remains a vital and uncompromising force in music and activism alike.
