The frontman’s offensive comment sparks backlash days before the band’s historic comeback shows in Cardiff
Just days before Oasis are set to make their long-awaited return to the stage, Liam Gallagher has ignited controversy with a racially insensitive remark on social media. The incident casts a shadow over what should have been a triumphant week for one of Britain’s most iconic bands.
On Tuesday, Gallagher posted a tweet using the anti-Asian slur “chingchong,” which quickly drew heavy criticism from fans and social media users. When one follower cautioned, “Liam, you can’t say that,” the singer shot back bluntly: “Why?” Another warned him that he was risking being “cancelled today,” to which Gallagher replied with a dismissive, “Whatever.”
The backlash was swift, and later that day the Oasis frontman deleted the post and issued a brief apology. “Sorry if I offended anyone with my tweet earlier, it wasn’t intentional. You know I love you all and I don’t discriminate. Peace and love,” he wrote.
The timing couldn’t be more precarious. Oasis are preparing for their first live shows in 16 years, with two sold-out performances at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium on July 4 and 5. The reunion tour will then roll through Manchester, London, Dublin, and Edinburgh before heading to Asia for dates at Tokyo Dome and Goyang Sports Complex in South Korea later this year.
The comeback lineup includes original members Gem Archer, Bonehead, and Andy Bell, along with Joey Waronker (drums), Christian Madden (keys), Jess Greenfield (backing vocals), and a full brass section. Notably, Greenfield is also a touring member of Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, sparking curiosity about the dynamics on stage.
Though the Gallagher brothers have avoided interviews leading up to the tour, Noel recently told TalkSPORT: “We wrapped up rehearsals last Tuesday. We’ve got a few days to rest now and it sounds massive. This is it, there’s no turning back.”
Liam’s latest Twitter misstep isn’t his first. In 2022, he drew fire for calling England football manager Gareth Southgate an ableist slur and later tweeting “Fuck you woke spastics.” Both posts were deleted, and no public apology was issued at the time.
Now, with fans counting down to what should be a euphoric celebration of Oasis’ legacy—coming just as the band reissues (What’s the Story) Morning Glory? for its 30th anniversary—the question remains: will Liam’s online provocations overshadow the music?
