Jade Thirlwall Leads Anti-Rowling Chant at Hoopla

Jade Thirlwall led a crowd of 30,000 in a chant criticizing J.K. Rowling during her performance at the Mighty Hoopla festival in London, using her song 'FUFN (F*** You For Now)' to denounce homophobia, transphobia, and misogyny. Thirlwall, formerly of Little Mix and now a solo artist, directly named Rowling in her call-and-response with the audience, spotlighting the author's controversial views on transgender rights. The moment, which occurred at a festival known for its celebration of queer culture, was widely shared and praised online. Rowling, who has faced criticism since 2019 for her statements on gender identity, denies being transphobic but continues to oppose trans inclusion in female spaces. Thirlwall emphasized her commitment to standing up for her beliefs and her LGBTQ+ fans, even if it means facing backlash. The incident renewed debate over artists’ roles in social and political activism.