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Modest Mouse Replaces Guitarist Simon O’Connor Amid Allegations
Modest Mouse has said guitarist Simon O’Connor will not join its forthcoming North American tour after allegations that he sent inappropriate social-media messages to a minor. The band has appointed Seth Jabour of Les Savy Fav as his replacement, but did not say whether O’Connor remains a permanent member; the decision affects a tour supporting its recent album.
The allegations were made in late July by a Reddit user who said they were 17 and had been sent an erotic image, with comments also made about photographs taken when they were 16. O’Connor denied any sexual behaviour towards minors, saying he had wrongly believed the account belonged to someone who had previously trolled him, sent messages in poor judgement, then withdrew them and stopped contact. The tour is due to run from 4 August in Ojai, California, to 24 October in Sacramento.
In short
- Modest Mouse removes Simon O’Connor from its forthcoming tour.
- Seth Jabour will replace him on guitar.
- O’Connor disputes the allegations and cites mistaken identity.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
When allegations of inappropriate contact with a minor emerge, protecting vulnerable people must take priority. The band's decision to remove O'Connor from the tour is a precautionary measure that safeguards touring environments for young fans and staff without requiring a final judgment on guilt. This response is proportionate, as the band can continue touring with a replacement guitarist whilst maintaining safety standards.
The case against
O'Connor has offered a specific explanation—that he mistook the account for a known troll—which, if true, describes poor judgment rather than predation. Removing him based on an unverified allegation without investigation undermines due process and the presumption of innocence, potentially establishing a troubling precedent where accusations alone end careers.
Explained simply
Modest Mouse is an American rock band formed in the 1990s, known for albums including The Moon & Antarctica and its recent release, The Golden Casket. Guitarists are part of the group’s live line-up, which can include musicians who join for tours.
Simon O’Connor had played guitar with the band. The allegations concern social-media messages to a person who said they were 17; O’Connor denied sexual behaviour towards minors and said he had sent messages in poor judgement after wrongly believing the account belonged to a former troll.
The dispute has drawn attention because it involves a young person and a touring musician, and because the band’s decision affects its live line-up. Seth Jabour, guitarist with Les Savy Fav, is set to take O’Connor’s place on the tour.