Scottish musical duo The Proclaimers have ignited a fresh wave of public discourse after speaking out against trans-rights activists, characterizing them as “truth-phobic.” In a recent interview with The Times to promote their latest album, You May Offend, twin brothers Craig and Charlie Reid addressed their stance on gender identity and the broader cultural climate surrounding free speech.
The brothers expressed clear disagreement with the Gender Recognition Reform bill, which was passed in Scotland in 2022 to simplify the legal process for individuals to change their gender. Craig Reid argued that the legislation has caused “real damage,” alleging that it has resulted in safety concerns within women’s prisons. He emphasized that he does not consider himself transphobic, but rather opposes the social pressure that he believes has led to individuals losing their careers for stating that “a woman is an adult human female.”
“A lot of these folk are basically truth-phobic. They’ll deny the biological reality. Then if you insist on it, they’ll say that you are hurting their feelings. That you’re disrespecting them. But I respect reality and scientific fact, not myth,” Craig stated during the interview.
Craig Reid of The Proclaimers in 2026. CREDIT: Lorne Thomson/Redferns/Getty
“You have to have freedom of thought.”
Ahead of provocative new album named You May Offend, Craig and Charlie Reid talk about their anger at the SNP, Western warmongering and the imperilment of free speech.
Read the interview with The Proclaimers here ⤵️https://t.co/UFFUUzSIJG pic.twitter.com/dzVmgNXv71
— The Telegraph (@Telegraph) September 9, 2026
The duo also used the platform to defend Father Ted creator Graham Linehan, who has become a polarizing figure due to his vocal opposition to gender self-identification. Charlie Reid noted that while he may not agree with every sentiment expressed by Linehan, he believes the writer has been unfairly treated for his views. “None of his pals stood up for him. I wouldn’t agree with everything Linehan says any more than I would do with JK Rowling, but you’ve got the right to stand up for science and logic,” Charlie said. “And in his case, it’s a tragedy. He lost his career for telling the truth.”
The conversation surrounding Linehan has been ongoing for years, involving various public figures and organizations. In 2023, the writer engaged in a public dispute with the band Lambrini Girls, who challenged his stance on stage. The band later responded to his comments by highlighting the mental health struggles faced by transgender youth, citing the impact of societal hostility.
The Proclaimers’ comments arrive alongside their new musical project, which they describe as a response to a culture where people feel increasingly fearful of expressing their opinions due to the threat of being “cancelled.” As the debate continues, the brothers remain firm in their commitment to what they define as scientific reality.