Fans react to Rex Orange County sexual assault news

It was revealed yesterday evening that Alexander O'Connor, the man behind Rex Orange County, has been charged with six counts of sexual assault.

These six counts allegedly come from a series of incidents with one woman over a period of time in June.

On June 1, O'Connor allegedly assaulted the woman twice in London’s West End and then four times the next day, including once in a taxi and three times at the musician's home in Notting Hill. The woman is said to be over the age of 16.

On October 10, O’Connor appeared at Southwark crown court, where he pleaded not guilty to the six charges. O'Connor was then released on unconditional bail.

A provisional date for the trial has been set for January 2, 2023.

A statement from a representative of the musician read: “Alex is shocked by the allegations, which he denies, and looks forward to clearing his name in court. He is unable to make any further comment because of the ongoing proceedings.”

A point of contention for now ex-fans of the artists is the cancellation of the Australia, New Zealand, and Europe legs of the Rex Orange County tour, where O'Connor cited “unforeseen personal circumstances” as his reason for cancellation. The artist said he was “having to spend some time at home this year” and would “not be able to continue with touring as planned."

“This is the last thing I want to do,” O'Connor wrote back in July. “I love touring and I am so sorry to be letting anyone down. I look forward to getting back to it as soon as I can.”

Quickly figuring out that this cancellation was due to the fact that the singer wouldn't be able to leave the UK due to the alleged assault, some fans have taken to Twitter with anger.

"Honestly, fuck Rex Orange County for issuing a sobby little notes statement pulling all of his touring due to "unforeseen personal circumstances" – and then enjoying one last victory lap with a massive London show before the news came out. What a complete and utter piece of shit," one Twitter user said.

Another said: "the way everyone was so concerned for rex orange county when he said he was cancelling shows, when it actually was because he was accused of sexual assault. vile man"

In a general reaction to the news that he has been charged with sexual assault – a charge he denies – ex-fans of the artist have shown their dismay across social media.

"6 counts of sexual assault???? anyone who still supports rex orange county after this hard block me thanks," one Twitter user said.

Just seen why Rex Orange County is trending pic.twitter.com/YkETLcBO7w

— Jeff FM (@jeffafterhours_) October 10, 2022

In 2015 O’Connor self-released his debut album, Bcos U Will Never B FreeFlower Boy.

O'Connor has released four albums in total, with the latest being this year’s Who Cares?, which went to No.1 in the UK charts. The musician has also collaborated with artists including Randy Newman and Chance the Rapper.