Harry Styles has attracted criticism online with fans saying a design on a New York concert ticket carries uncomfortable associations with the anniversary of the September 11 terror attacks. Photo / @familyshowstyle
The criticism stems from the attacks of September 11, 2001, when hijacked commercial aircraft crashed into the World Trade Centre’s Twin Towers in New York City, killing nearly 3000 people.
The attacks remain the deadliest terrorist act in US history.
While some fans labelled the design insensitive, others defended it, arguing the artwork was whimsical and representative of Styles’ colourful visual branding rather than a reference to historical events, Page Six reported.
No suggestion has been made the singer or his team intentionally linked the design to 9/11.
The ticket controversy comes as Styles continues his Madison Square Garden residency as part of his Together, Together world tour. The singer launched the New York run in late August and is scheduled to perform 30 shows at the venue before concluding the residency on Halloween, according to Metro UK.
Harry Styles is performing 30 shows at Madison Square Garden as part of his Together, Together world tour. Photo / Getty Images
Away from the ticket debate, Styles has generated more headlines this week after announcing the 2027 dates for his record-breaking Together, Together tour.
Styles’ landmark run at Wembley Stadium also made history, with his 12 consecutive shows earning a Guinness World Record for the longest single-artist residency at the venue, according to the BBC.
The pop star said the success of the tour had exceeded his expectations and described himself as “the luckiest person in the world” to continue performing for fans, Rolling Stone reported.
However, Styles also hinted the newly announced concerts could mark the final chapter of the tour.
The singer said he doesn’t know “what comes next” in his career after the final dates, fuelling speculation he may take an extended break from touring after years of near-constant live performances since launching his solo career after One Direction.