Finneas Defends Billie Eilish, Criticizes ‘Old White Men’ Over Grammys Speech
Finneas O’Connell has publicly defended his sister, Billie Eilish, following backlash from certain quarters regarding her recent Grammys acceptance speech. He expressed his thoughts on Threads, where he noted a surge of outrage from “powerful old white men” in response to her comments. This strong reaction has stirred conversations around the issues she addressed during the ceremony.
Historic Grammy Win
Billie Eilish and Finneas made headlines by securing the Grammy for Song of the Year, marking a significant achievement as the first artists to win this category three times. Their winning song, “Wildflower,” featured poignant themes that resonated with many, particularly in light of social issues facing the country.
Advocacy at the Grammys
During the 2026 Grammy Awards, the duo demonstrated their commitment to social justice by wearing “ICE Out” pins. This was a protest against the tactics employed by the Department of Homeland Security, which have been under scrutiny following the tragic killings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti in Minnesota.
Billie Eilish’s Speech
- Eilish emphasized, “No one is illegal on stolen land,” challenging the status quo.
- She called for continued advocacy, stating, “We just need to keep fighting, speaking up, and protesting.”
- Part of her speech was censored during the live broadcast, although she was heard saying, “F— ICE,” which received an enthusiastic response from the audience.
Broader Context of the Event
This year’s Grammy Awards became a platform for several artists to voice their concerns regarding the federal immigration policies. Artists like R&B singer Kehlani directly criticized ICE, while others, including Bad Bunny and Shaboozey, celebrated immigrant communities in their speeches.
Billie Eilish’s bold statements and Finneas’s defense highlight the ongoing tension between artistic expression and societal expectations. Their commitment to using their platform for advocacy continues to inspire many fans and fellow artists alike.
