In a surprising and polarizing statement, legendary musician Barry Gibb, the last surviving member of the iconic Bee Gees, has publicly declared his refusal to celebrate Pride Month in June 2025. The announcement, made via a post on X on June 14, 2025, has ignited a firestorm of reactions, with Gibb citing his belief that “woke” culture, as he described it, does not deserve commemoration. The statement has drawn both support and criticism, amplifying ongoing debates about cultural celebrations and free speech.
Gibb, known for his falsetto voice and contributions to hits like “Stayin’ Alive” and “Night Fever,” stated in his post: “I’m not celebrating Pride Month this year or ever. This ‘woke’ agenda is being shoved down our throats, and I’m done with it. It’s not about equality anymore; it’s about ideology.” He went on to express concerns about what he perceives as an overreach of progressive values, particularly in how they influence public discourse and artistic expression. Gibb argued that cultural celebrations should focus on unity rather than divisive ideologies, though he did not elaborate on specific grievances.
The announcement comes at a time when Pride Month, recognized annually in June to honor the LGBTQ+ community, has become a flashpoint for cultural debates. In recent years, some public figures and organizations have faced backlash for either supporting or rejecting Pride-related initiatives. Gibb’s statement aligns with a growing sentiment among certain groups who criticize what they call “woke” culture—a term often used to describe heightened social awareness or progressive activism perceived as excessive. His remarks echo sentiments expressed in past controversies, such as those involving corporations like Target and Chick-fil-A, which faced conservative pushback for their Pride Month campaigns in 2023.
Supporters of Gibb’s stance have praised his willingness to speak out. On X, fans and commentators lauded the singer for “standing up to cancel culture” and “speaking truth.” One user wrote, “Barry Gibb is a legend for saying what many are thinking. We’re tired of being told what to celebrate.” Others argued that his refusal reflects a broader frustration with performative corporate activism, pointing to examples like Target’s 2023 Pride collection, which was scaled back after backlash over “tuck-friendly” swimsuits and other items.
Conversely, Gibb’s announcement has drawn sharp criticism from LGBTQ+ advocates and fans who view his comments as a betrayal of the inclusive spirit often associated with the Bee Gees’ music. A prominent activist group responded on X, stating, “Barry Gibb’s music brought people together across generations. It’s heartbreaking to see him reject a community that has always embraced his work.” Critics argue that his use of “woke” as a pejorative dismisses the struggles of marginalized groups and undermines the purpose of Pride Month, which commemorates the 1969 Stonewall Riots and the ongoing fight for equality.
The controversy has also reignited discussions about the role of celebrities in cultural debates. Gibb, now 78, has largely stayed out of political controversies throughout his career, making this statement particularly jarring for fans accustomed to his focus on music. Some speculate that
