The vocalist of Protest the Hero, Rody Walker, openly criticized Brand New frontman Jesse Lacey during one of the band’s electrifying live performances. This confrontation took place amidst a passionate show, where Walker shared his thoughts on serious issues impacting society.
In a recently uploaded video on Protest the Hero’s official YouTube channel, titled “Don't Give Brand New Your Money,” Walker addressed the alarming trend of labeling others as pedophiles, particularly targeting conservative politicians. His commentary was both pointed and provocative, showcasing his signature sardonic style.
Walker emphasized that while the term “pedophile” is frequently thrown around, many choose to ignore the genuinely troubling instances of pedophilia. His remarks sparked a conversation about accountability and the importance of addressing real issues rather than merely using accusations as a form of insult.
During the show, he provocatively questioned the crowd, asking, “Why is anyone still supporting Brand New?” He continued with his characteristic sarcasm, stating, “This motherfucker was grooming children. He should not have the platform he once exploited to manipulate young fans.”
Although the video lacks context regarding Walker’s sudden pivot to discussing pedophilia during the concert, a fan who attended the show offered insight on a relevant Reddit thread. According to their account, after performing a few songs, Walker jokingly expressed that he’d prefer to be at home with his son.
The fan recounted, “Someone in the audience playfully booed him, suggesting, ‘Boo your son!’, prompting Rody to quip back, ‘Do you like kids? Are you a pedo?’ Towards the end, he even apologized to the heckler for the comment before launching into the passionate rant captured in the video.”
To witness Walker’s bold statements, check out the concert clip featured below.
Rody Walker’s Bold Critique of Jesse Lacey’s Controversies
Unpacking the Serious Allegations Against Jesse Lacey
In the fall of 2017, Lacey publicly acknowledged his guilt after facing multiple allegations of sexual misconduct, including soliciting nude photos from underage individuals. In a lengthy, heartfelt apology shared via his social media platforms, he revealed that he had developed a “dependent and addictive relationship with sex” during his formative years.
Although Brand New had intentions to disband in 2018, Lacey’s admissions led to their abrupt separation. The fallout from these revelations was significant and left a lasting impact on the band’s legacy.
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After a secret, intimate charity show in December 2024, Brand New announced a series of reunion performances in March, culminating in a full-scale, 24-date U.S. tour commencing in late May.
However, shortly after the tour announcement, new allegations of grooming surfaced. A detailed report published by Medium featured a claim from an individual who accused Lacey of manipulating and grooming her when she was just 15 years old, following a friendly acquaintance.
“Jesse Lacey should not be allowed to tour right now,” she asserted in her account. “He was a well-known public figure who, in my opinion, exploited his influence as a lead singer to take advantage of emotionally vulnerable young fans.”
Since the band’s reunion earlier this year, neither Brand New nor Lacey has publicly addressed the ongoing allegations.
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Gallery Credit: Loudwire Staff
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