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Modest Mouse guitarist Simon O’Connor will not join upcoming tour following inappropriate messages allegations
Developed over time first seen 4 months ago
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 appeared on the band’s Reddit forum with 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.
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In short
- O’Connor will not join Modest Mouse’s forthcoming tour
- Seth Jabour will replace him on guitar
- O’Connor apologised while disputing the alleged context
How this story developed
- 4 months ago 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.
- 4 months ago 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.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Those supporting the band's decision would argue that any inappropriate contact between an adult and a minor warrants swift protective action, regardless of claimed intent or context. Immediate removal from touring prioritises safeguarding and sends a clear message that the band takes such allegations seriously and will not allow potential ongoing access to underage fans.
The case against
Those questioning the response would contend that context and proportionality meaningfully affect the appropriate consequence. If O'Connor's account is accurate—mistaken account identity and a single unsent message rather than sustained inappropriate contact—permanent removal from touring may be disproportionate to the alleged conduct, and fuller investigation before such serious consequences might be warranted.
Explained simply
Modest Mouse are an American indie rock band formed in Washington state in the 1990s. They became widely known for songs including Float On and have continued to tour with a changing line-up of musicians alongside founding singer and guitarist Isaac Brock.
Simon O’Connor has played guitar with the band in recent years. Seth Jabour is the guitarist in the American rock band Les Savy Fav, and is due to perform with Modest Mouse for the forthcoming dates.
The allegations concern messages described as inappropriate, although the available report does not set out further details. Such claims can affect touring plans because bands and promoters may need to decide who will take part in public performances.