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Modest Mouse Drops Guitarist Simon O’Connor From Upcoming Tour
Modest Mouse has removed guitarist Simon O’Connor from its forthcoming tour after allegations that he sent inappropriate social-media messages to a minor. The decision follows O’Connor’s public apology and explanation, but the band did not say whether his departure is permanent.
A 17-year-old Reddit user alleged that O’Connor sent an erotic image and commented on photographs taken when they were 16. O’Connor said he had mistaken the user for an online troll, sent messages in poor judgement, then unsent them and stopped contact; Seth Jabour of Les Savy Fav will replace him on guitar for the tour, which runs from 4 August to 23 October in California.
In short
- Modest Mouse dropped Simon O’Connor from its upcoming tour.
- The move follows allegations involving messages to a minor.
- Seth Jabour will replace O’Connor on guitar.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Sending sexually explicit content to a minor is serious misconduct requiring swift institutional response. The band correctly prioritised safeguarding by removing O'Connor from the tour, establishing clear standards that such conduct is incompatible with touring operations, and protecting younger attendees.
The case against
O'Connor's behaviour was wrong, but he apologised sincerely, immediately removed the messages, and ceased all contact—evidence suggesting genuine remorse rather than predatory intent. Removing him from the tour without clarifying whether this is permanent or exploring any path forward treats a serious mistake as equivalent to more systematic misconduct. Proportionality in consequences, which distinguishes between different contexts and levels of wrongdoing, strengthens accountability frameworks.
Explained simply
Modest Mouse is an American rock band formed in the 1990s, known for songs such as “Float On”. Guitarists help shape a band’s sound on record and during live performances, and touring line-ups can change from one set of concerts to another.
Simon O’Connor had been due to play guitar on the band’s forthcoming tour. The allegations concern messages sent to a Reddit user who says they were 17 at the time; O’Connor has apologised and described his actions as poor judgement, while the band has not said whether his departure is permanent.