Modest Mouse Removes Guitarist Amid Allegations

Modest Mouse removed Simon O’Connor from their tour following allegations of inappropriate communication with a minor. O’Connor, who joined the band in 2021, will not participate in the upcoming tour.

In an announcement on social media, the band stated, “Simon O’Connor will not be joining us on the upcoming tour.” They also shared that guitarist Seth Jabour from Les Savy Fav will replace O’Connor on stage.

The issue arose when a 16-year-old fan shared screenshots of inappropriate messages allegedly sent by O’Connor. The fan claimed O’Connor sent an erotic image and numerous direct messages after she liked some of his Instagram stories. She indicated her age in her profile handle, noting her 17th birthday countdown.

O’Connor reportedly deleted the messages but admitted through texts that his phone was not hacked. He described his actions as a result of a “party night.” In a later response, he suggested the interaction was mutual, referencing the fan’s “bikini pics,” suggesting that both were at fault.

He responded to the controversy by stating, “I unequivocally oppose any sexual behavior towards minors.” He explained the incident involved confusion with another individual who previously engaged with him under fake profiles.

O’Connor shared that he realized his mistake after sending the messages and ended communication promptly. He issued an apology to the recipient of the messages, stating, “I’m genuinely sorry to the person who received those messages. They didn’t deserve to be put in that position.” O’Connor asked for understanding, expressing, “I know some people will choose not to believe me, and I understand that. I can’t change what’s happened. All I can do is tell the truth, take responsibility for my mistake, and apologize.”

O’Connor previously toured with the band MGMT and contributed to Modest Mouse’s latest album, “An Eraser and a Maze.”