This Day in History: John Lennon Sparks His First Major Controversy

This Day in History: John Lennon Sparks His First Major Controversy

This Day in History: John Lennon Sparks His First Major Controversy March 4, 1966 In an interview for the London Evening Standard, the Beatles front man made the comment, "We're more popular than Jesus now." When published in the U.K., the comment caused little stir.

When it was reprinted in the United States out of context, it created a massive controversy across the country.

On the eve of a U.S. tour, the band was boycotted by radio DJs nationwide.

During the tour, the band received death threats and their concerts were picketed by the KKK.

The controversy influenced the Beatles decision to stop touring, becoming a studio-only band from then on.