Matt Forde Critiques Edinburgh Council for Oasis Fans’ Treatment

Stand-up comedian Matt Forde has criticized the Edinburgh Council for its dismissive comments about Oasis fans ahead of the band’s sold-out concerts at Murrayfield in August 2024. The council’s remarks, which described Oasis enthusiasts as “fat,” “old,” “drunk,” and “lairy,” have sparked outrage among fans, including Forde, who feels that such comments reflect a deeper snobbery.

Forde, known for his impersonations of the Gallagher brothers, expressed his frustration during a recent conversation. He stated, “Many people don’t understand Oasis. They think it’s just a group of yobs, but that opinion is unfair.” He emphasized that this negative perception is often applied only to white working-class individuals, describing it as “unreal snobbery.”

Reflecting on his recent experience at an Oasis concert in Cardiff, Forde described the atmosphere as “joyous” and “phenomenal.” He noted that while many fans were drinking, it was a celebration without any aggression. “It’s heartbreaking to think that excited fans coming to Edinburgh after spending a fortune on accommodations will be met with such disdain,” he added.

Forde will be showcasing his new stand-up show, Defying Gravity, at the Edinburgh Festival next month. He is particularly disappointed by the council’s comments, which he believes undermine the positive contributions of concertgoers to the local economy. “Is that really how you talk about tourists coming to your place?” he questioned.

This year, Forde’s show also delves into the current political climate in the UK. He referenced the rise of the Reform Party, led by Nigel Farage, and expressed concern over the potential political ramifications for both the Labour Party and the Scottish National Party (SNP). Forde remarked, “The Labour government is trying to sort things out, but they are facing pressure from the Reform Party.”

He believes that the discontentment among the public stems from various factors, including economic struggles since the financial crash. “People are skint and livid, and they have every right to be,” he said. He also addressed the narrative surrounding the Reform Party, stating that it is inaccurate to categorize all their supporters as far-right extremists.

In addition to discussing politics, Forde’s upcoming performances will feature special guests, including former SNP MP Joanna Cherry, who has been vocal about her views on gender identity issues within her party. Forde explained the significance of Cherry’s involvement, noting that she remains a prominent figure in nationalist politics.

As the political landscape evolves, Forde remains optimistic about the potential for change in Scotland. He predicts that Anas Sarwar, the leader of the Scottish Labour Party, could emerge as the next First Minister following the May election. “He is a charismatic individual,” Forde stated, acknowledging the formidable electoral capabilities of the SNP but suggesting that Labour’s governance at Westminster could bolster Scottish Labour’s prospects.

Forde’s playful impersonations of political figures, including Boris Johnson, will also be part of his act. He expressed excitement about revisiting his impressions of Noel and Liam Gallagher, particularly with the renewed interest in Oasis as they prepare for their concerts.

In conclusion, Forde’s commentary highlights the intersection of entertainment and politics, demonstrating how cultural events can reveal underlying societal attitudes. His upcoming shows during the Edinburgh Festival promise to blend humor with insightful political observations, making them a must-see for audiences.