Modest Mouse Removes Guitarist From Tour Following Allegations of Inappropriate Contact With Minor

Indie rock outfit Modest Mouse announced the removal of guitarist Simon O’Connor from its forthcoming tour lineup following allegations that he engaged in inappropriate online communication with a minor. The band disclosed the decision via social media last week, stating that Seth Jabour from Les Savy Fav would assume guitar duties for the scheduled performances. O’Connor had been a member of Modest Mouse since 2021.

A 16-year-old female fan posted allegations on Reddit last month, claiming O’Connor sent her an explicit image along with a series of direct messages after she interacted with his Instagram content. The accuser stated her age was visible on her social media handle and that O’Connor had viewed her birthday countdown story. According to the account, O’Connor subsequently deleted the initial message and continued exchanging messages with her.

In response, O’Connor acknowledged sending the messages but disputed the characterization of events in a detailed statement. He claimed he had mistaken the account for one belonging to a person who had previously harassed him across multiple social media profiles. O’Connor stated he realized his error within minutes, unsent the messages, and immediately halted communication.

“I’m genuinely sorry to the person who received those messages,” O’Connor wrote. “They didn’t deserve to be put in that position, and I’m sorry for the stress and attention this has brought them.” He added that he understood some would doubt his account but emphasized he was taking responsibility for his actions.