Totton venue The Attic cancels appearance by controversial columnist and comedian Katie Hopkins due to backlash
A TOTTON venue has cancelled an appearance by far-right media personality Katie Hopkins following a backlash from other artists.
The former Apprentice contestant, who also appeared on Celebrity Big Brother, was due to perform her Live Laugh Love tour at The Attic in Winsor Road on 3rd May.
However, soon after the announcement that she would perform there other bands and acts due pulled their shows in protest.
The Attic has now confirmed the event featuring Ms Hopkins, known for her extreme views, will no longer go ahead.
A statement on its Facebook page said: "As it has come to most people’s attention recently, we booked Katie Hopkins' stand-up show.
"This event has been cancelled and is no longer going forward. All tickets holders will be contacted and receive a full refund with immediate effect."
The statement added: "We were aware Katie is controversial in her opinions, but did not know the extent of the transphobic, homophobic, racist and discriminatory attitudes she has.
"Having looked into this further we completely understand why people have been affected by the booking.
"Here at the Attic, we accept all people, no matter what race, gender or sexuality and we hope people feel comfortable and safe when attending music gigs or comedy nights. Our venue is a non-political, neutral venue, inclusive and welcoming to everyone."
It concluded: "Views of staff and management do not align with Katie Hopkins' views, nor do we wish to upset any of our customers.
"We apologise if this caused upset to those believing Katie shouldn't be given a platform and also those who had booked tickets to come to the event.
"We thank all our fantastic staff and customers for their patience in what has been a very difficult and divisive matter."
Commenting on the decision, Totton councillor David Harrison said: "I am pleased to observe that society has moved on from the days of Bernard Manning when it was considered acceptable to make public performances based on racist jokes.
"In the case of attention-seeking Katie Hopkins, she isn't even a comedy act, so expect we would have had racism without even the humour."
He added: "It's also interesting to read that management appear to have made the decision to cancel only after other artists and musicians decided that they wouldn't perform at the venue, in protest.
"We can frankly do without racism in my home town, whether in the guise of entertainment or anything else."
The A&T has approached Ms Hopkins for comment.
