Based to the country’s human rights issues, Rod Stewart has passed on a mega money offer to perform in Saudi Arabia.
Given the oppression of “women, the LGBTQ community [and] the press” in the kingdom, the now 78-year-old rock icon declined a significant sum of money to bring his show to the Middle East.
In a recent British interview, Stewart stated “I’m grateful that I have a choice whether or not to perform in Saudi Arabia. So many citizens there have extremely limited choices… women, the LGBTQ community, the press.” “I’d like my choice not to go… to shine a light on the injustices there and ignite positive change.”
Not the first time the superstar singer chose ethics instead of economics, Rod turned down $1,000,000+ to bring his live show to Qatar, which hosted the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
A source close to the situation stated “Rod was determined to do the right thing and couldn’t accept the offer, no matter how much money was on the table. Some things are more important.”
The UK performer previously mentioned that he wanted to use his 2016 Knighthood from late British monarch Queen Elizabeth II to do good in the world and highlight charities he supports, stating:
“I usually keep all my charitable efforts nice and quiet and just do it. But I thought, ‘I am a knight, I have been given this knighthood because of the things I’ve achieved in my life and the charity work I’ve done over the years.’ “But that was the past. I want to be seen to be doing something now. I am a knight, I should be using my power to do something for people. I am sure that if there are people out there who see what I am doing, they will pick up some slack too.”
In Saudi Arabia engaging in same-sex relationships is illegal and can be punishable with the death penalty.
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Author: Saul Goode
Photo: Jakub Janecki