Coldplay's Chris Martin Sparks Controversy With Tribute to Slain Activist Charlie Kirk

Article Image

Coldplay's Chris Martin Sparks Controversy With Tribute to Slain Activist Charlie Kirk

Minji Kim · 14. syyskuuta 2025 klo 0.26

Coldplay frontman Chris Martin has ignited a firestorm of controversy after issuing a tribute to conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was recently killed in a shooting incident.

According to international entertainment media reports on the 13th (local time), Martin made the contentious remarks during a Coldplay concert at London's Wembley Stadium.

During the 'Music of the Spheres' tour stop, attended by thousands of fans, Martin addressed the audience before performing the 2005 hit "Fix You." He stated, "This is our last London show for a while. Let's send some love out into the world, wherever it needs it."

He continued, "We can send love to our brothers and sisters, to families going through tough times, to the family of Charlie Kirk, or to anyone you disagree with. Let's send love for peace in the Middle East, Ukraine, and Russia."

The comments immediately drew backlash from some concertgoers. "I'm disappointed," one fan wrote online, "If that kind of statement comes up at a concert, I'd just leave." Another questioned, "It was embarrassing. Why single out Kirk?"

Ironically, Kirk himself had previously stated publicly, "I'd rather die than go to a Coldplay concert" and joked that watching WNBA games would be preferable.

Charlie Kirk, 31, was a prominent American conservative figure whose death was described as a political assassination. He was shot and killed during a Q&A session regarding gun control in the United States. Police have arrested 22-year-old Tyler Robinson in connection with the shooting.

Chris Martin is the lead vocalist and pianist of the British rock band Coldplay, formed in 1996. He is a key figure in the band's global success, celebrated for his songwriting and emotive vocals. Beyond music, Martin is a dedicated advocate for environmental causes and social justice, consistently using his platform for positive change.