Ian McNabb has faced a growing backlash after defending Russell Brand on social media, claiming women were 'throwing themselves at him' and suggesting the comedian had been unfairly targeted because of his outspoken views. The 66-year-old former Icicle Works frontman has since seen several performances cancelled after his remarks sparked criticism from music promoters and fellow performers.
His comments included claims that women who later said they had been treated badly were 'the worst', prompting accusations that he was blaming alleged victims for their experiences. The controversy has raised questions about his attitude towards sexual assault allegations, particularly given Brand's recent convictions for rape and sexual assault.
What Ian McNabb Said About Russell Brand
In a now-deleted post, McNabb claimed Brand was 'being stitched up for his outspoken views' and said he knew people who had been in the comedian's circle. He wrote: 'Girls were throwing themselves at him every night. If that happened to me, I know what I would do'.
McNabb went on to say: 'If you want to hang out with the artist, don't cry when you're in the picture'. He also claimed women who attended these situations 'know exactly what's going on', before describing those who later said they had been treated badly as 'the worst'.
His remarks appeared to question the credibility of women who had spoken about their experiences and suggested they shared responsibility for what happened. However, socialising with or spending time with a performer does not mean someone has consented to sexual activity.
Brand was convicted at Southwark Crown Court on 5 November of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault involving four women. The offences took place between 2004 and 2009. He was sentenced on 9 November to 10 years and six months in prison.
He was also acquitted of two other counts of rape and one count of attempted indecent assault. Brand denied the charges.
Promoters Cancel McNabb's Performances
The backlash has had a direct impact on McNabb's live performances. Wrecking Ball Arts Centre in Hull cancelled his scheduled show on 21 March 2027. The venue said: 'In light of Ian McNabb's disgraceful social media comments in support of Russell Brand, I, as the promoter and the whole Wrecking Ball team refuse to work with him going forward'.
It confirmed that ticket holders would receive refunds through their original point of purchase and said McNabb would not be allowed to perform at the venue again. Promoter Renegade Communions also cancelled planned dates in Glasgow, Edinburgh and Newcastle.
Shows at The Cluny 2 in Newcastle, Cottiers in Glasgow and the Voodoo Rooms in Edinburgh were among those affected. A planned Kinross performance was also reported to have been cancelled by organiser Mundell Music.
Promoter Ewan McNaught said he hated cancelling gigs but could not defend McNabb's comments. He added: 'As a husband and a father of a young daughter, I simply can't work with him moving forward'.
However, not every future date had disappeared from sale. The Lancashire Post reported on 10 November that tickets for planned Clitheroe performances in May 2027 were still available, despite McNabb claiming his upcoming shows had been cancelled.
McNabb Attempts To Explain His Comments
In a subsequent statement, McNabb said he had been 'CANCELLED' and that his upcoming shows had been called off. He maintained that Brand had been 'railroaded and treated unfairly', claiming his fate was sealed after he turned against what he called the 'Epstein Class'.
McNabb said he agreed with some of Brand's views on Big Pharma and the military-industrial complex, while insisting he opposed non-consensual sexual behaviour. He wrote: 'I condemn the treatment of women for sexual pleasure that is not consensual; I condemn the predatory nature of males who do so'.
He apologised to ticket holders and said he was entering a period of 'self-reflection and contemplation'. His comments drew criticism from fellow performers, including musician Sean Dickson, who described them as 'vileness'. Comedian Jo Caulfield responded: 'Oh dear, how sad, never mind'.
McNabb is best known as the former frontman of The Icicle Works, whose hit 'Love Is a Wonderful Colour' reached the UK Top 20. The backlash has put his touring plans under pressure, with promoters distancing themselves from his remarks.
