Former Pantera Frontman Has NZ Shows Cancelled Due To Past 'White Power' Comments

Two New Zealand venues have pulled their shows with former Pantera frontman Philip H Anselmo in light of "white power" comments he made in 2016.

As reported by the NZ Herald, Philip H Anselmo & The Illegals were due to play at Christchurch's Club Tavern on 26 March but the venue has since announced the cancellation via Facebook saying "The Philip Anselmo gig has been cancelled" and that "We do not and will not support white supremacy or racism." The event and comment have since been removed from the venue's Facebook page. 

Auckland's Galatos, where the band were due to play on 27 March, have shared on Facebook yesterday that they will no longer be holding the event, saying that "Just today, information has come to hand which has made us uncomfortable about proceeding with this show", though they have not addressed what that information is. 

The NZ Herald reports that "Anselmo was filmed ending a concert in 2016 by giving a Nazi salute and shouting 'white power' and has made multiple public remarks about white supremacy." 

Following the incident, Anselmo shared an open letter saying that he was "repulsed by my own actions" and "From the bottom of my heart, and with all sincerity, I once again am truly sorry for the pain I have caused."

Philip H Anselmo & The Illegals landed in Australia this morning with shows scheduled to start on Thursday at The Basement in Canberra. The Music has reached out to local promoters Soundworks Touring for comment.