Just hours after the U.S. Supreme Court’s shocking decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, Billie Joe Armstrong, the lead singer of Green Day, made a bold statement on stage during a London concert. Right in the middle of the show, he learned about the ruling and couldn’t hold back his emotions.
With the crowd listening closely, Armstrong declared his outrage at the U.S. for failing to protect women’s reproductive rights and announced his plan to renounce his American citizenship.
Armstrong didn’t mince words. He was angry, and he let the audience know exactly how he felt. “The world is stupid,” he said bluntly, calling the U.S. a “miserable” place. The frustration was clear in his voice, and he hinted that he didn’t plan to go back to the U.S. after the band’s European tour. “I don’t want to go back,” he said, his voice full of defiance.
Despite his harsh words about America, the London crowd cheered in support. The applause grew louder as Armstrong let it continue for a moment before making sure everyone knew he was serious. “I’m not kidding,” he said, confirming his decision to give up his U.S. citizenship.
Then, as if to excite the crowd even more, he added, “You’re going to see a lot more of me in the coming days.” It was clear he had his eyes set on spending more time in the U.K.
The next day, Armstrong took the stage again in London, and this time his message was even stronger. “F*** the Supreme Court and America!” he shouted to the crowd. The audience roared in response, standing by him in solidarity. Green Day then launched into their famous song “American Idiot,” a fitting choice for the moment, full of rebellion and anger at the system.
But Armstrong wasn’t the only one from the music world speaking out against the Supreme Court’s ruling, which gave states the power to restrict or ban abortions. Across the U.S., several red states were already working to limit women’s access to essential healthcare services.
Billie Eilish, another huge name in music, had also spoken out against the ruling. During a performance in July 2022, she was visibly upset as she addressed the crowd. “Today is a really, really dark day for women in the U.S.,” she said. “I can’t even think about it any longer.”
After expressing her frustration, Eilish dedicated her song “Your Power” to the Supreme Court justices who made the decision. “This song is about power,” she explained, “and how important it is that we don’t abuse it.”
What do you think about Billie Joe Armstrong’s decision to give up his U.S. citizenship? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
