A vocal advocate for LGBTQ rights, The 1975 frontman sparks a potential controversy by hugging and kissing a lucky male fan while performing his band's track 'Loving Someone'.
- August 16, 2019
AceShowbiz - The 1975 frontman Matt Healy flouted Dubai's strict anti-homosexuality laws by kissing a male fan during a gig.
The British rocker, 30, who is a vocal advocate for LGBTQ rights, performed with his group in the Muslim city, part of the United Arab Emirates, on Wednesday (August 14).
He sparked a potential controversy by heading into the audience at the Coca-Cola Arena while performing their track "Loving Someone" to hug and kiss the lucky male fan. Footage of the incident was posted by a fan on Twitter but the video has since been removed.
After the show, Matt referenced the moment in a tweet, writing that he expected to be banned from the Muslim nation.
"Thank you Dubai you were so amazing," he quipped. "I don't think we'll be allowed back due to my 'behaviour' but know that I love you and I wouldn't have done anything differently given the chance again."
The "Chocolate" hitmaker later added: "But who knows maybe they will let me back in let's just wait and see :)."
Homosexuality is illegal in Dubai and is punishable with up to 10 years in jail.
Matt and his bandmates have often supported LGBTQ causes and last year (18) made a donation towards the $60,600 (£50,000) that helped activists establish the London LGBTQ+ Community Centre.
Dubai officials did not respond to a request for comment on the kiss.
