Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh (born 16 October 1997), better known by his stage name Mo Chara ("My Friend" in Irish), is an Irish rapper, actor, and activist from Belfast, Northern Ireland. He is a founding member of the hip hop group Kneecap, which raps in both Irish and English and is known for its provocative lyrics, political activism, and support for the Irish language.[2][3]
Ó hAnnaidh co-founded Kneecap in 2017 with Naoise Ó Cairealláin (Móglaí Bap) and JJ Ó Dochartaigh (DJ Próvaí). The group quickly gained notoriety for their energetic performances, satirical and politically charged lyrics, and unapologetic embrace of Irish republican and working-class Belfast youth culture. Their debut single "C.E.A.R.T.A." was released in 2017, followed by the album 3CAG (2018) and Fine Art (2024), both of which received critical acclaim.[4][5]
Kneecap's music addresses themes such as Irish language rights, anti-colonialism, class, and the legacy of the Troubles, often using humour and irony. The group has also been outspoken in its support of Palestinian nationalism, and has been at the centre of public debates about free speech and political expression in Ireland and the UK.[2]
Acting
Ó hAnnaidh starred as a fictionalised version of himself in the film Kneecap (2024), a comedy-drama directed by Rich Peppiatt that depicts the group's rise and the cultural and political context of contemporary Belfast. The film, which also features Michael Fassbender, won several awards and was praised for its authenticity, humour, and social commentary.[6]
Political activism
Ó hAnnaidh and Kneecap are known for their activism in support of the Irish language and Irish Republicanism, as well as their criticism of British government policies in Northern Ireland.[2]
Ó hAnnaidh was charged in the UK in May 2025 with a terrorism-related offense for allegedly waving a Hezbollah flag at a concert in London in November 2024.[9][10][11] He denied the charges, saying the flag was thrown on the stage, and that he does not support Hezbollah.[12][7] Ó hAnnaidh and the group stated that they "do not, and have never, supported Hamas or Hezbollah", condemned all attacks on civilians, and alleged footage was "deliberately taken out of all context" as part of a "coordinated smear campaign" over their criticism of "the ongoing genocide against the Palestinian people".[8]
The offence carries up to six months' imprisonment or a fine and a district judge, not a jury, will decide the case.[13] He appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court on 18 June 2025, and was released on unconditional bail, set to return for a further hearing on 20 August 2025.[14] Following the court appearance, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer told The Sun that he did not consider Kneecap's planned performance at the Glastonbury Festival on 28 June to be appropriate, citing the seriousness of the charge and the ongoing legal proceedings. The band responded "You know what's 'not appropriate' Keir? Arming a fucking genocide. Fuck The Sun and solidarity with Palestine Action".[15][16]
He returned to court on 20 August 2025, where his defense argued the charge was brought too late, as he was formally charged on 22 May 2025, one day after the six-month statutory limit. The prosecution contended that the charge was made on 21 May, within the time limit.[17] He requested and was granted an Irish interpreter, despite his ability to speak English fluently.[18] The case was adjourned, with a decision scheduled for 26 September 2025.[17] He then greeted supporters who had gathered outside to thank them, and said in English, "While we’re here, genocide is taking place in Palestine. Free Palestine!"[19]
Personal life
Ó hAnnaidh grew up in West Belfast, an area with a strong Irish-language revival movement and a history of political activism. He is fluent in Irish and English and is regarded as a prominent figure in the contemporary Irish-language music scene.[3]
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