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Singer Cancels Gig Amid Backlash Over Partner's Stance
11 Feb
Summary
- Musician Adam Hyde cancelled a performance at a major horse racing event.
- Backlash erupted due to his girlfriend Abbie Chatfield's anti-racing comments.
- The Australian Turf Club confirmed the cancellation on Wednesday.
Adam Hyde, frontman for Peking Duk and performing as Keli Holiday, has withdrawn from a scheduled gig at Royal Randwick's Championships carnival on April 4. The Australian Turf Club confirmed the cancellation on Wednesday following widespread criticism.
The controversy arose after Hyde accepted a paid performance at the major horse racing event, which conflicted with his girlfriend Abbie Chatfield's strong anti-racing public statements. Chatfield, a media personality, had previously spoken out against attending racing carnivals, stating she had refused significant payments for appearances.
Fans and animal rights activists alike voiced criticism, calling the couple hypocritical for Hyde's participation despite Chatfield's outspoken views. The announcement of Hyde's performance at Randwick was met with confusion and negative reactions online, with many questioning the apparent contradiction.
The prestigious Autumn carnival is a significant event in Sydney's racing calendar, attracting large crowds. The exact earnings Hyde was set to receive for the performance remain undisclosed.
