LONDON, UK — In a stunning and decisive move that has sent shockwaves through the music industry, pop icon Phil Collins has permanently expelled a member of his own touring band after learning the individual participated in a grotesque photo mocking the assassination of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk.

The incident came to light when images surfaced on social media following a recent performance, showing the band member—identified as longtime percussionist Mark Tolbert—posing near a memorial display for Kirk while making an offensive gesture and laughing. Kirk was tragically killed on September 10, 2025, during a speaking event at Utah Valley University.

In a blistering statement released through his management, Collins did not hold back:

“Effective immediately, Mark Tolbert is no longer a member of my band or associated with my team in any capacity. He will never perform with me again, attend my shows, or have any contact with my organization. His behavior was not only deeply disrespectful—it was inhuman.”

Collins, who had previously called for a nationwide moment of silence at concerts in Kirk’s memory, emphasized that the dismissal was a matter of moral principle, not politics.

“What happened to Charlie Kirk was a tragedy. A life was taken. A family was destroyed. To see someone I’ve shared a stage with mock that loss—it’s indefensible. This isn’t about ideology. It’s about basic decency.”

The photo, which quickly went viral, shows Tolbert standing near a fan-made tribute outside the venue, holding a printed image of Kirk’s face crossed out with a red “X” while giving a thumbs-up. Audience members reported the incident to security, and the image was soon recognized by Collins’ own team.

Tolbert, who had been with Collins’ touring ensemble for over a decade, issued a brief apology on his now-deactivated social media account, writing: “It was a moment of poor judgment. I let my emotions get the best of me.” But the explanation did little to calm the outrage—especially from Collins himself.

The music legend’s firm response has drawn both praise and criticism. Supporters applaud his uncompromising stand for respect and empathy, while some detractors accuse him of overreacting or public grandstanding.

Yet Collins’ message is clear: there will be zero tolerance for hatred or mockery of tragedy within his circle.

Fans and artists have rallied behind the decision. Hashtags like #RespectOverHate and #CollinsCodeOfConduct have spread widely, with many calling for broader accountability in the entertainment industry.

“Phil did the right thing,” said fellow musician Peter Gabriel, former bandmate of Collins in Genesis. “There’s no room for cruelty in music. Or in humanity.”

Charlie Kirk’s family released a statement thanking Collins for his “ integrity and moral clarity during an painful time.”

As Tolbert’s career faces an abrupt end, Collins’ actions send a powerful message to performers and audiences alike: music may bring us together, but respect is what keeps us united.

This is a developing story.