After declaring the Italian Prime Minister a 'fascist Nazi', Placebo rocker was officially charged.

 

\Brian Molko, the lead singer of British rock band Placebo, has been accused of defamation for insulting Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni during a concert in Turin.

 

The 52-year-old rocker was sued by Meloni in August 2023 after he reportedly called her a “fascist” and a “Nazi,” and even referred to her as a “piece of st” while performing at the Sonic Park festival in Stupinigi. During the concert, Molko can be seen shouting 'f**k you' at the Prime Minister in video footage.

 

In March 2024, it was revealed that prosecutors in Turin were waiting for confirmation of Molko's residence, since he lives in London. In February 2025, Italy's justice ministry granted the prosecutors' request to officially charge Molko. Meloni, whose far-right political views and policies have caused controversy, is the first woman to become Prime Minister in Italy.

 

After police at the concert filed a complaint, Molko is currently facing legal trouble due to an investigation into possible defamation and 'contempt of the institution'. Molko could be fined up to €5,000 (£4,200) if convicted, but a prison sentence is not likely. In Italy, there is a possibility of up to three years in prison for defaming public figures, including government officials.

 

Meloni's legal action against public figures for harsh language is part of a larger trend, which is why this incident is part of a wider trend. A fine was imposed on journalist Roberto Saviano in 2023 for calling her a 'b***h' for her position on migration. The rise in lawsuits against individuals for their public comments has been significant since Meloni took office in Italy.