Rapper Slowthai dropped from Parklife line-up following rape charges

The rapper Slowthai has been taken off the line-up for this year’s Parklife festival, after he was charged with two counts of rape. The 28-year-old, whose real name is Tyron Kaymone Frampton, was set to appear on the bill for this year’s event at Heaton Park, alongside the likes of Aitch, The 1975 and Little Simz.

He appeared in front of Oxford Magistrates' Court on Tuesday this week via videolink, and spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address. The charges, which he has denied, relate to allegations dating back to September 2021.

He was bailed and will appear before Oxford crown court next month.

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His name now no longer appears on the Parklife line-up on its website, and he has also been dropped from the Leeds and Reading Festivals, and Glastonbury, though he currently remains on the billing in a support slot for Blur at Wembley in July. Tickets are also still on sale for his Ugly World Tour, which is due to stop at the O2 Victoria Warehouse in Manchester in September.

The Manchester Evening News has contacted Parklife for comment.

In a post to Instagram, he said: “Regarding the allegations being reported about me. I categorically deny the charges. I am innocent and I am confident my name will be cleared. Until then I will apply my energy to ensure this is concluded swiftly and justly.

"I ask that my supporters don't comment about this situation and respect the process and privacy of my family during this time."

Frampton was nominated for the Mercury Prize in 2019, for his album Nothing Great About Britain, and for a Grammy in 2021.

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