The Wiggles Respond to Controversy
Australian children's music group The Wiggles have released a statement addressing concerns after two of its members were featured in a music video for the song 'Ecstasy' by musician Keli Holiday. The video, which has since been removed from circulation, sparked controversy due to the song's apparent allusions to drug use.
The clip featured Anthony Field, the Blue Wiggle and the only remaining original member of the group, along with his nephew Dominic Field, who portrays the Tree of Wisdom character. Both were seen dancing in the background of the video.
In a statement provided to The West Australian newspaper, a spokesperson for The Wiggles clarified the group's position: "We understand that a video circulating on social media has caused concern for many parents and professionals, and we want to address that directly. The Wiggles do not support or condone the use of drugs in any form. The content being shared was not created or approved by us, and we have asked for it to be removed."
The statement further emphasized the independent nature of the video's creation: "While Keli Holiday is a friend of The Wiggles, the video and the music added to it were created independently and without our knowledge."
Details of the Controversial Video
The TikTok video gained significant traction, amassing over 92,000 views before its removal, according to Australian media reports. The video was intended to promote Keli Holiday's new single, 'Ecstasy.'
The song's chorus contains the lyrics: "Hey girl, come on dance with me. You and your pocket full of ecstasy."
The clip was filmed at the TikTok Awards earlier this month, where members of The Wiggles performed on stage with Holiday (whose real name is Adam Hyde) during his song 'Dancing2'. Holiday subsequently shared the video on TikTok with the caption "The Wiggles get it."
Clarification from The Wiggles' Spokesperson
A spokesperson for The Wiggles further clarified to The West Australian newspaper that the band's performances at the awards show were "family-friendly." The spokesperson asserted that the controversial video had been "edited together separately and without our awareness."
Background on The Wiggles and Keli Holiday
The Wiggles were formed in 1991 as part of a university assignment and have since grown into an international phenomenon within the children's entertainment industry. Anthony Field is the sole original member still actively involved with the group.
Keli Holiday is a solo project by Adam Hyde, who is also recognized as one half of the electronic dance duo Peking Duk.
The BBC has reached out to Holiday's management for comment on the situation.
