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.
— Mel C / Melanie C (@MelanieCmusic) December 26, 2022
One person tweeted: “It’s so important we all stand up for social justice — especially those on the public stage. Thank you, Mel C, for being one of the good guys and role modelling what it means to have values.”
Another fan wrote: “One of the most inspiring and beautiful human beings ever-so much respect for you, Melanie!”
Throughout her expansive career, Mel C has consistently used her platform and interviews to support her LGBTQ+ fanbase.
Back in 2019, Mel C collaborated with popular LGBTQ+ collective Sink The Pink and even wrote a song inspired by them titled High Heels.
The talented songwriter’s unwavering allyship has also earned her a Celebrity Ally prize at the British LGBT Awards.
In a 2020 interview with Planet Radio, the 48-year-old gave further insight into her relationship with the LGBTQ+ community.
“My relationship with the LGBTQ+ community started a long time ago with the (Spice) Girls, and we are so grateful for the love and support we’ve had from the community,” she said in a 2020 interview with Planet Radio,
“I’m so grateful to the LGBTQ+ community for accepting me, and allowing me to stand side-by-side with them.”
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