President Donald Trump’s Freedom 250 concert has been hit with major turmoil after another high-profile performer backed out, becoming the fifth act to leave the lineup just weeks before the event.
Bret Michaels announced Thursday night that he was withdrawing from the celebration, saying the event had become far more politically divisive than what he originally agreed to participate in.
The Poison singer said he initially accepted the invitation because he believed Freedom 250 was focused on celebrating America’s upcoming 250th anniversary, honoring veterans and bringing people together through music.
However, Michaels said the situation changed after controversy erupted over the concert’s ties to the Trump administration.
The rocker said the event “evolved into something much more divisive than what I agreed to be a part of.”
Michaels also claimed safety concerns played a major role in his decision, saying threats directed toward people close to him crossed a line.
“Concerns have also been raised regarding the safety of my fans, band, crew, family and myself, including threats that are completely unfounded and unforgivable,” Michaels said.
He insisted his decision was not about choosing a political side.
“This isn’t about politics. It’s about staying true to what I’ve always believed in,” Michaels stated.
“Everyone is entitled to their own opinions. That’s one of the freedoms our veterans fought for and something I’ve always respected.”
Michaels’ departure follows similar exits from Morris Day, Young MC, The Commodores and Martina McBride.
The withdrawals have left organizers scrambling after five of the nine announced headline performers abandoned the event shortly after the lineup became public.
Several artists claimed they were originally told the event would be a nonpartisan celebration of America rather than something connected to Trump.
McBride said she was disappointed after learning more details about the event.
“I was presented with an opportunity to perform at a nonpartisan event but that turned out to be misleading,” she said.
She added that she had asked questions beforehand and was assured the event would celebrate all Americans.
Young MC made a similar argument, saying he was unaware of the political connection when initially agreeing, per the Daily Mail.
“I had no clue it was considered a ‘Trump-backed’ event, so that was new to me,” he said.
Despite the wave of exits, several performers remain attached to the event.
Vanilla Ice confirmed through representatives that he still intends to perform, saying he is “proud to help celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary.”
Freedom Williams also defended his decision to participate, saying he would not allow outside pressure to determine whether he performs.
Freedom 250 was created as part of America’s 250th anniversary celebration and works alongside federal efforts connected to the America250 Commission.
The celebration was promoted as a massive nationwide commemoration leading up to the milestone anniversary, but the controversy surrounding the concert lineup has quickly turned the event into another flashpoint in America’s ongoing political divide.
