Mel C exits New Year’s Eve gig in Poland over “issues that do not align with communities I support”
Spice Girls star Melanie C has pulled out of her upcoming New Year’s Eve performance in Poland. On 26 December, the beloved singer revealed the news in a brief statement on social media. “In light of some issues that have been brought to my attention that do not align with communities I support, I’m afraid I will no longer be able to perform in Poland as planned on New Year’s Eve,” she wrote. “I hope to be back there very soon.
Hope you’re all having a wonderful Christmas, and best wishes for 2023.” While the Never Be The Same Again singer refrained from giving further details, some fans have theorised that her decision has stemmed from Poland’s archaic treatment of the LGBTQ+ community.
According to Deadline, her performance would have aired on the country’s public broadcaster TVP, which activists have accused of airing anti-LGBTQ+ material over the last few years.
In addition to the broadcaster, Poland has also faced backlash from human rights advocates and the European Union over their “LGBT-Free” zones – which came to fruition after the country’s ruling Law and Justice Party inspired numerous towns to be free from “LGBT ideology.” In response to Mel C’s announcement, fans flocked to social media to praise the legendary entertainer for her decision.
