Sam Carter of Architects Initially Considered Releasing Guitarist Adam Christianson Over 2024 Transphobia Controversies

Architects Frontman Addresses Controversy

Architects frontman Sam Carter revealed that he initially wanted to part ways with guitarist Adam Christianson following a transphobic and homophobic incident involving him at the start of last year.

• Read more: Architects on the new album “The Sky, The Earth & All Mower”: “If we are not going to realize our potential now, when are we?”

In January 2024, Christianson stirred anger among fans and band members after he reposted a video on X (formerly Twitter) originally shared by political commentator Tim Pool, which included a controversial clip from mixed martial arts professional Sean Strickland.

In the contentious video, Strickland made remarks about the LGBTQ+ community, stating, “If I had a transgender son, I would think that I could not create such weakness.” He also referenced past thoughts against transgender individuals, claiming, “Ten years ago, being transgender was a mental disease. And now, suddenly, people like you have damaged the world. You are an infection. You are the definition of weakness. Everything wrong with the world is because of you.”

Pool then posted about Strickland, calling him a “damn A+ Guy” and criticizing “the infection that woke up to the left.” This message prompted Christianson to change his repost, although he later deleted it.

Later, the musician issued an apology stating, “Shit! This retweet was a complete accident! I do not endorse anything that the guy says, except for the tradition of freedom. Sorry for the panic! Complete misunderstanding.”

Nonetheless, despite the swift retraction and apology, social media and fans began to criticize both Christianson and the band as a whole. In conversation with The Guardian, Sam Carter discussed his initial reaction to the repost, expressing a desire for the guitarist to be sacked from the band.

“I was distraught. I thought: he should go. And then he called, and we had a phone conversation,” Carter explained. “He is my friend who lifted me from the floor when I was in pieces. He is a loving father and a saint. But you promoted this image. (The internet) – is a terrible place.”

Drummer Dan Sirl also weighed in, noting the backlash on social media: “They wanted Adam to be crucified on the street, to lose his job. All for something less than an act of blatant transphobia.”

Band’s Response and Upcoming Tour

A few weeks later, the Architects returned to the stage and clarified their stance on homophobia and transphobia. Addressing the Paris crowd, Carter stated: “No one on this stage judges anyone for their gender, race, or whom they love. We have never done so, and we will never do so. This is not what this band stands for, and it is not what we will defend. We love each of you.”

In other news, Architects recently announced their UK and European tour for 2025. The Brighton metalcore group will hit the road this fall to support their 11th and latest album “The Sky, The Earth & All,” released last month and featuring former Horizons member Jordan Fish.

Tickets go on sale at 10:00 GMT / 11:00 CET this Friday (March 14) – You can buy yours here (UK) and here (Europe). Alternatively, fans can access various pre-sales this week through Ticketmaster.

Upcoming Tour Dates

Autumn 2025 Architects UK and European Tour:

October
01 – Zenit – Munich, DE
03 – Porsche Arena, Stuttgart, DE
04 – Mitsubishi Electric Halle, Düsseldorf, DE
05 – Festhalle, Frankfurt, DE
07 – Ziggo Dome, Amsterdam, NL
08 – Barclay’s Arena, Hamburg, DE
10 – CO-OP Live, Manchester, UK
11 – Utilita Arena, Cardiff, UK
12 – O2, London, UK

Architects plan to kick off their European tour in the spring of 2025 in Lille, France, on March 10. This summer, the band will support Linkin Park on select dates of their European tour before heading to the United States for various festivals.

Speaking with NME at the end of last year, frontman Sam Carter mentioned, “Growing up, Linkin Park had a massive impact on me and my vocals. If you told me when I was 13 that I’d be playing stadiums with Metallica and Linkin Park, I would have never believed it in my wildest dreams.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tccgoslyrti

When asked about Architects’ live plans for 2025, drummer Dan Sirl told NME that the UK tour was “probably overdue.” He added, “We have a complicated relationship with playing in the UK as we spend so much time touring abroad.”