Placebo rocker formally charged after calling Italian Prime Minister a ‘fascist Nazi’
Brian Molko, the frontman of British rock band Placebo, has been formally charged with defamation after allegedly insulting Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni during a live performance in Turin.
The 52-year-old rocker was sued by Meloni in August 2023 after he reportedly called her a “fascist” and a “Nazi,” and even referred to her as a “piece of st” while performing at the Sonic Park festival in Stupinigi. Footage appears to show Molko shouting “fk you” at the Prime Minister during the concert.
In March 2024, it was reported that prosecutors in Turin were awaiting confirmation of Molko's domicile, as he resides in London. On February 2025, Italy’s justice ministry approved prosecutors' request to formally charge Molko. Meloni, who has been a controversial figure due to her far-right political views and policies, is the first woman to hold the position of Prime Minister in Italy.
Molko's legal troubles stem from an investigation into possible defamation and “contempt of the institution” after a complaint was filed by police present at the concert. If convicted, Molko could face a fine of up to €5,000 (£4,200), although a prison sentence is considered unlikely. In Italy, defamation of public figures, including government officials, can carry a penalty of up to three years in prison.
This incident is part of a wider trend, as Meloni has previously taken legal action against public figures for harsh language. In 2023, journalist Roberto Saviano was fined for calling her a “b***h” over her stance on migration. Since Meloni assumed office, Italy has seen a significant rise in lawsuits against individuals for their public comments.
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