Newsboys, one of the top Christian bands, is suing a Canada-based promoter for defamation following the cancellation of its Canadian tour dates.
As Ticket News reports, the popular Christian band was set to embark on a world tour with Michael Tait. However, following multiple sexual assault allegations, Tait announced he would step away from the group, which led to the cancellation of the Canadian tour dates.
Faith LIVE, an Alberta-based promoter, said that after Tait announced his departure, ticket sales declined, adding that “the handling of the transition lacked clarity and transparency, leaving both our team and the public in a difficult position.”
This statement is reportedly why Newsboys are suing the promoters for $5.4 million. According to The Roys Report (TRR), the group said in its lawsuit filings that they have been “seriously injured” due to defamation by Faith LIVE owners Sheena and Nick Hennink.
“The Newsboys have been seriously injured in their credibility, character and reputation, especially in relation to their standing in the Christian rock scene, and they have suffered damages – both reputational and special damages related to loss of opportunities,” the lawsuit reads.
The lawsuit also alleges that the promoters are responsible for the loss of multiple tour dates, including a performance at Finland’s Glow Festival later this month, along with placement on Christian radio stations.
Newsboys members said they were not aware of Tait’s alleged actions.
“The reality is that the Newsboys never knew or had any reason to suspect that Tait was abusing drugs or engaging in any form of sexual assault or grooming behaviour,” the suit continues, adding that the alleged actions by the promoters have “significantly exacerbated the harm and damage suffered by the Newsboys.”
Faith LIVE responded to the lawsuit on Facebook, writing, “Faith LIVE Stands for Truth.”
The post continued:
“We never imagined we’d be here. Faith LIVE, a small Canadian faith-based concert promoter, is now being sued by one of the biggest names in Christian music –
“Why? Because we refused to stay silent when we saw unethical behaviour, broken promises, and a lack of transparency that hurt fans, churches, sponsors and ministries. We chose integrity over intimidation.
“Faith LIVE was built to serve God’s Kingdom, not an industry machine. We’ve always been about honesty, accountability and making sure that the Gospel is not overshadowed by greed or power plays.
“We are not a big corporation with millions to burn. We’re a small, family-run ministry with a heart for bringing people to Jesus through music. But we will not be bullied into silence — not by anyone, no matter how famous their name is.”
Several men have accused Tait of sexual assault since TRR first reported that he assaulted three men between 2004 and 2014. Since that initial report, more alleged victims have spoken out, including Evanescence co-founder Jason Jones.
The Brentwood Police Department in Tennessee is now asking potential survivors to come forward as they look into the allegations.