Reading and Leeds criticised for replacing Rage Against the Machine with The 1975

12 August 2022, 12:42 | Written by Cerys Kenneally

(News)

(The 1975)

Reading and Leeds festivals have been criticised for announcing The 1975 as a replacement headliner for Rage Against the Machine this morning.

Yesterday (11 August) Rage Against the Machine shared a statement cancelling their upcoming UK and European shows, and this morning Reading and Leeds 2022 announced The 1975 as a replacement headliner. Some Rage Against the Machine fans aren't happy with the substitution, and many have been seeking refunds.

In response to Reading and Leeds writing "It’s not living, if it’s not with The 1975" on Twitter, one user wrote, "Like going for a skydive and ending up playing lawn bowls."

Like going for a skydive and ending up playing lawn bowls
— Pig (@a_good_pig) August 12, 2022

One person commented, "Fuck absolutely shocking replacement after absolutely no mention of rages departure I cannot believe someone looked at that “band” and went yes they will be ideal replacements for a metal/rock band, absolute joke. It’s not living cus ur festival is dead."

Fuck absolutely shocking replacement after absolutely no mention of rages departure I cannot believe someone looked at that “band” and went yes they will be ideal replacements for a metal/rock band, absolute joke. It’s not living cus ur festival is dead
— Tom (@hoodwinkersir) August 12, 2022

Another user wrote, "Awful replacement let’s be honest," and another comment read: "ah yes, let's replace one of the biggest rock bands ever with an indie pop band, I'm sure all their fans will love that!"

ah yes, let's replace one of the biggest rock bands ever with an indie pop band, I'm sure all their fans will love that!
— Isaac (@Isaac702_) August 12, 2022

"Read the room," one user wrote. "90% of people are calling this out for the joke it is and you are doubling down. Refunds galore on Friday tickets because you couldn’t get anyone actually decent in. What a joke."

Read the room. 90% of people are calling this out for the joke it is and you are doubling down. Refunds galore on Friday tickets because you couldn’t get anyone actually decent in. What a joke
— LUFC OZZY (@AdamOzzy) August 12, 2022

Reading and Leeds 2022 takes place from 26-28 August