Reggie Watts dropped from festivals after drug and abuse allegations

Comedian and musician Reggie Watts has been removed from several festival lineups following allegations concerning drug use and abusive behaviour in past relationships.

Watts, known for his work on Comedy Bang! Bang! and The Late Late Show with James Corden, has faced scrutiny after Rolling Stone reported allegations from several women who previously dated him, as well as people close to his late former girlfriend Katherine McCollough.

According to the report, McCollough’s loved ones and former partners accused Watts of reckless drug-related behaviour and alleged that he crossed boundaries in relationships. McCollough died by suicide in March, months after the couple ended their relationship.

Watts’ attorney strongly rejected suggestions that he contributed to McCollough’s death, calling such claims “dangerously false”. Watts has also denied allegations that he was abusive toward his former partners.

The allegations have already had professional consequences for the performer. Watts was reportedly removed from the lineups for the Shambala and Greenbelt festivals in England. His scheduled Bristol performances with musical collaborator CAPYAC were also cancelled.

Greenbelt confirmed that Watts would no longer perform at the festival, while Shambala removed his name from its website.

The fallout has also extended to Watts’ television work. Comedy Bang! Bang! reportedly removed the theme song he created for the series from its programming.

The cancellations come as questions surrounding the allegations continue to circulate, with Watts and his representatives disputing key claims made against him.

For now, the controversy has significantly affected Watts’ upcoming performance schedule, as festival organisers and other professional partners reassess their association with the comedian.