Britain’s Got Talent judge Alesha Dixon and 5ive pull out of pro-Brexit music event

The acts pulled out over concerns the event is more a “political rally”

Out: Alesha Dixon has pulled out of the concert

Stuart C. Wilson/Getty

Emma Powell25 May 2016

Britain’s Got Talent judge Alesha Dixon and boyband 5ive have pulled out of a music concert after claiming they were unaware that it was a pro-Brexit event.

Management for both acts said they made the decision to step down from BPop Live over concerns that the event – which is endorsed by the Leave.EU campaign – is more a “political rally”.

A representative for Dixon told Standard Online: “When Alesha was approached to perform at this event it was on the understanding that this was a multi artist pop concert in a fantastic venue in the heart of the UK and Alesha would be there purely as an entertainer.

“It has now come to light that this is more of a political rally with entertainment included and we have decided to withdraw Alesha from the event. We wish to apologise to any fans who may have purchased tickets for this event. I would like to make it clear that Alesha has no political allegiances either way on this issue.”

5ive voiced similar concerns, saying: "When Rich and Scott agreed to play the event they understood that it was a pop concert funded by one of the Brexit organisations and not a political rally.

“They would like to make it clear that as a band 5ive have no political allegiances or opinions for either side. Their allegiance is first and foremost to their fans."

BPop Live will take place in Birmingham on June 19 – four days before the EU referendum.

Both Dixon and 5ive remained on the website as being amongst the acts.

East 17 and soul legends Sister Sledge are still on the bill.

Dixon’s and 5ive’s withdrawal came after Sigma pulled out of the concert after claiming they "weren't aware it was a political event".

Twitter users mocked the cancellations with one posting: “I've been off twitter for a couple hours. Is the Brexit gig still a thing? Are there any acts left? #BPopLive .”

Another tweeted: “Hope East 17 do (We can't) Stay Another Day (In The EU).”

Standard Online has contacted BPop Live for comment.