Although Nicki Minaj canceled her performance for the Jeddah World Fest, the event is proving that the show must go on. For tonight’s festival in Saudi Arabia, Future, Chris Brown, Tyga and more have joined the lineup.
President of the Human Rights Foundation, Thor Halvorssen, said in a statement to the Associated Press that he is disappointed. Halvorssen finds it “profoundly distressing that they have chosen money over morals.”
“These individuals constantly make public statements of support for LGBT rights and women’s rights, except, apparently, when a seven-figure check is attached,” Halvorssen relayed. “The hypocrisy is breathtaking. Principal apparently matters to them far more than principles.”
In a tweet, Halvorssen praised the Queen rapper for her decision to step away from the festival. He admitted that Janet Jackson, 50 Cent, Tyga, Chris Brown and Future are only focused on the money.
“.@NICKIMINAJ is the brightest star in the darkest night. Meanwhile @LiamPayne @50cent @JanetJackson @steveaoki @tyga @chrisbrown (mega-millionaires) left their morals behind and went to #Saudi to collect money they don’t need at concert where women must’ve permission and gays,” he wrote.
Earlier this month, Minaj explained that she canceled her headlining set performance after educating herself on the issues in Saudi Arabia.
“After careful reflection I have decided to no longer move forward with my scheduled concert at Jeddah World Fest,” she said to the Associated Press. “While I want nothing more than to bring my show to fans in Saudi Arabia, after better educating myself on the issues, I believe it is important for me to make clear my support for the rights of women, the LGBTQ community and freedom of expression.”
Tonight’s festival is scheduled to take place at King Abdullah Sports Stadium. The event will be broadcasted globally by MTV. In the meantime, check out Thor Halvorssen calling out the event’s new performers below.