Modest Mouse removes guitarist Simon O'Connor from tour after minor-age messaging allegations
The indie rock band announced that guitarist Simon O'Connor will not join its upcoming tour, citing accusations that he sent inappropriate messages to a teenage fan.
Modest Mouse said on social media that guitarist Simon O'Connor, who joined the group in 2021, will not participate in its forthcoming tour. The band added that Seth Jabour of Les Savy Fav will fill in on guitar for the dates.
The decision follows a Reddit post in which a 16-year-old fan posted screenshots alleging O'Connor sent her an erotic image and a series of direct messages after she liked his Instagram stories. The fan indicated her age in her username and referenced a birthday countdown post that identified her as 17.
O'Connor responded the next day, stating he opposes any sexual behavior toward minors and expressed remorse for the messages. He said he mistakenly believed he was interacting with a repeat account and, after realizing the error, deleted the messages and ceased contact.
Representatives for Modest Mouse did not immediately comment on the matter. O'Connor, who has previously toured with MGMT, appears on the band’s recent album "An Eraser and a Maze."