Former Sex Pistols frontman John Lydon has criticized the band’s recent performances with new singer Frank Carter. The statement appeared in Louder Sound.
Lydon, known for performing as Johnny Rotten with the Sex Pistols, voiced his disapproval of the band’s current incarnation. He expressed particular concern about its impact on their legacy.
“[Sex Pistols with new singer Frank Carter] is weird. [It’s] a dumbing down of all the integrity, intensity, genuine honesty and heartfelt emotions I put into that band,” Lydon stated. “Of course, it’s karaoke, but it’s like… Come on, Mr. Carter, you’re not Johnny Rotten, I am. Right? Stop it.”
His comments emerge during a period of significant developments in the Sex Pistols’ current activities and lineup changes.
A report from Consequence revealed that the new lineup with Frank Carter has maintained an active touring schedule. The band recently delivered a performance at PUNKSPRING 2025 in Tokyo.
Carter’s integration into the band began last year. The group has since performed across the UK, delivering complete renditions of their iconic album “Never Mind the Bollocks.”
Vinyl Me Please confirmed the group’s preparations for an extensive North American tour. The tour will commence on September 16, 2025.
The band proceeds with their touring plans despite ongoing criticism. Lydon continues to voice concerns about the band’s legacy. No legal disputes have emerged regarding the current lineup’s performances.
Blabbermouth highlighted the upcoming North American tour as the Carter-fronted version’s most ambitious project. This marks a new chapter in the Sex Pistols’ history, even as Lydon maintains his objections.
