Madison Kwiecinski – Editor-in-Chief

Mvk5945@psu.edu 

Alexander O’Connors, a twenty-four-year-old man better known through his musical persona Rex Orange County made fans shocked and appalled this week when it came to light he is being charged with six counts of sexual assault in the United Kingdom. 

“Alex is shocked by the allegations, which he denies, and looks forward to clearing his name in court,” stated a Representative for Rex Orange County in a statement. “He is unable to make any further comment because of the ongoing proceedings.” 

However, it seems unlikely this news was “shocking” to O’Connors, as he had previously canceled the rest of his tour in July of this year. Rex Orange County had announced that his August 13 performance in Gunnersbury Park was going to be the last leg of the tour he completed. This effectively canceled scheduled appearances in Australia, New Zealand, and Europe. 

“It is with a great deal of sadness to announce that due to unforeseen personal circumstances, I am having to spend some time at home this year and I will not be able to continue with touring as planned,” read his tweet before listing the shows which would be canceled. “This is the last thing I want to do. 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.” 

The singer clearly will be “spending some time at home this year,” considering he is currently not permitted to leave the country due to legal proceedings. One fan even took the opportunity to respond to the tweet with, “Why not be straight up w ur listeners my guy.” 

The incident he is facing trial for is said to have taken place on June 1, where he assaulted a woman twice in London’s West End. He is also charged with assaulting the same woman four times throughout the next day, including ones in a taxi and three incidents inside his home located in Notting Hill. The woman has been reported as over the age of sixteen, with no other details being released. 

On October 10, O’Connor was forced to appear in court at Southwark Crown Court, where he pleaded not guilty to all sex charges. He was then released on unconditional bail. A provisional trial date is set for January 3, 2023