Glastonbury shifts tradition with Billie Eilish joining 2027 headliners

Glastonbury Festival appears to be moving away from its traditional approach to headline acts, with pop star Billie Eilish reportedly joining Harry Styles and Sam Fender for its 2027 edition.

According to reports, Eilish will perform on the festival’s iconic Pyramid Stage next June, completing a headline line-up that reflects a growing focus on younger audiences. Styles and Fender, both 32, are also expected to headline the major music event.

The reported selection marks a shift for Glastonbury, which has traditionally featured established veteran performers among its biggest acts. Organisers appear increasingly focused on attracting younger music fans as the festival prepares for its return next year.

The change follows mixed responses to some performances at the previous edition. Neil Young, 80, headlined on Saturday night, while many festivalgoers reportedly headed to another stage to watch Charli XCX. Meanwhile, Sir Rod Stewart’s performance in the festival’s celebrated Sunday afternoon legends slot received mixed reviews.

Robbie Williams has also been linked with a possible appearance next year, although his participation has not been officially confirmed.

Eilish would bring considerable star power to the event, particularly among Generation Z audiences. The American singer has built a global following through her chart-topping music and acclaimed live performances.

She previously appeared at Glastonbury in 2019 and returned in 2022, when she became the festival’s youngest solo headliner at the age of 20. Her potential return would further strengthen the event’s appeal to younger fans.

The reported booking could also help address longstanding criticism over the representation of women in Glastonbury’s headline slots. In 2023, organisers faced criticism after announcing an all-male line-up for the Pyramid Stage, featuring Arctic Monkeys, Guns N’ Roses and Elton John.

The following year, Dua Lipa and SZA became two of the festival’s female headliners. However, technical problems during performances sparked debate among audiences.

Glastonbury organiser Emily Eavis has also reportedly sought to secure Harry Styles for the festival for several years, hoping his popularity would attract a younger crowd. His touring schedule had previously made arrangements difficult, but his current world tour appears to have left a potential opening.

Fender’s expected appearance was also reported last week, with the North Shields-born musician said to have discussed the booking with neighbours.

The reported line-up suggests Glastonbury could be entering a new era, balancing its longstanding musical heritage with the tastes of a younger generation. However, Eilish’s reported booking and the remaining headline arrangements await official confirmation.