Video Footage Posted Of Otep Singer Bashing Rowdy Fan With Mic In Alleged Assault Attempt

Earlier this month Otep Shamaya claimed that a rowdy audience member attempted to rush the stage in a potential attempt to assault her, having allegedly called her a “cunt” prior, amongst other heckling. The incident took place during Otep‘s show at Take 20 in Belvedere, IL on June 07th and saw Otep defend herself by bashing the man in question with a microphone twice. Video footage of the incident has since emerged and can be seen below.

While it’s hard to make out exactly what is happening, it’s clear that Shamaya bashes the individual twice with the microphone after asking if he called her a “cunt.” Given the angle, it is less clear whether or not the man tried to rush the stage. At the time, Shamaya provided this statement, which you can read below:

“I’d like to thank everyone, all the fans and supporters, the venue and their security, who stood by me during the unfortunate altercation after our performance. Our shows do get wild and riotous but this was different. I apologize for all the blood but I was being physically threatened and had to defend myself. Thanks again for your unending support.”

According to staff and audience members, a man, described as very large and belligerently drunk, was attempting to instigate fights before the show, including harassing OTEP’s muscle-man guitar player, Aristotle. Later, this same man was seen throwing a young woman into the Monitor Board which resulted in a disruption of sound during OTEP’s set. After the show, as Otep was on stage inviting people to the meet & greet at the merch table, the same man screamed out that she was a “CUNT” and charged the stage. Fearing for her safety, she instinctively struck his head with her microphone. He screamed to hit him again and lunged at her and she struck him a second time. Security then removed him from the venue while he continued to scream insults at Otep.

Known for her advocacy against bullying and her stance regarding violence against women, Otep continues to defend equality and safety for all people, including her own.”