Sir Paul Gets Back to Israel

The former Beatle will reportedly perform for the country's 60th birthday, 43 years after his legendary band was refused entry

By Jovie Baclayon Aug 24, 2008 5:00 PMTags
Paul McCartneyKevin Mazur/WireImage.com

More than 40 years after the Beatles were banned from playing in Israel, Sir Paul McCartney will reportedly take the long and winding road back to Tel Aviv next month.

Israeli media is buzzing that the 66-year-old legend will take the stage Sept. 25 for his first-ever performance in the Holy Land as part of the country's 60th birthday celebration. Although the gig hasn't been confirmed, the official announcement is expected in the next few days.

The Fab Four was refused entry in 1965 amid concern their lyrics could corrupt the morals of Israeli youth. Earlier this year, Israel's ambassador to Britain, Ron Prosor, sent formal letters to McCartney, Ringo Starr, and the families of John Lennon and George Harrison, that said, "There is no doubt that it was a great missed opportunity to prevent people like you, who shaped the minds of the generation, to come to Israel and perform."

No word yet on whether McCartney's allowed to jump, shout, hug and kiss onstage.