Modest Mouse have said guitarist Simon O’Connor will not join their forthcoming tour after allegations that he sent inappropriate messages to a 16-year-old fan. The band did not directly address the claims or say whether O’Connor has permanently left, but announced that Les Savy Fav guitarist Seth Jabour will take his place.

The allegations were posted on the band’s Reddit forum, alongside screenshots said to show an Instagram exchange shortly before the fan’s 17th birthday. O’Connor said he opposes sexual behaviour towards minors, claimed he had mistaken the account for someone previously harassing him, and apologised for sending a “tasteless meme” before unsending the messages; he has played with Modest Mouse since 2021.