Steven Patrick Morrissey, the former frontman of the Smiths, issued a statement on his official website on Thursday that he has identified nine individuals who have been posing as him on the internet. According to the statement, the impersonators were acting on behalf of various political groups and had been posting content that the singer says “severely harmed Morrissey’s status and character.”

The claim follows a 2025 investigation by Web Sheriff, an online brand‑protection firm that has worked with artists such as Prince, Bob Dylan and Beyoncé. Web Sheriff’s report, released in February 2025, identified a single person of interest who had led a “decades‑long campaign of fraud, disinformation and defamation” against Morrissey. The singer subsequently filed a lawsuit against the unnamed individual. In his court filings, Morrissey alleged that the campaign had prevented him from releasing music in the United Kingdom for five years.

Morrissey’s new studio album, Make‑Up Is a Lie, was issued in March 2026 after a period of relative silence. The album follows a series of high‑profile controversies that have marked the singer’s solo career, including sudden show cancellations, abrupt exits from performances and the appearance of a far‑right political pin during a 2025 television appearance.

The latest statement also names two of the nine impersonators. One is described as having a “connection with a generally unsupportive ‘Morrissey’ website operating in the United States,” while another is said to have “had connections to an ex‑member of the Smiths.” The statement does not identify which former bandmate is involved, though it notes that Morrissey has had public disputes with all three other members of the Smiths over the years.

Morrissey says he has never been active on open‑forum social media platforms such as Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok or any other site that would allow him to post or comment. He adds that his public reach has been limited to the M‑central site, which he says has always been based in England.

The singer’s statement calls for the appointment of two legal firms to pursue police action against the nine individuals. He notes that the financial cost of such a campaign would exceed his personal capacity and that the next step is under consideration.

Industry observers note that the case illustrates the growing problem of online impersonation and defamation for public figures. While the legal framework for suing for impersonation requires proof of specific damages, the case shows how a coordinated online campaign can affect an artist’s reputation and commercial prospects.

Morrissey’s history of political controversy is well documented. In 2025, he was photographed wearing a pin that bore the logo of the For Britain Movement, a far‑right UK political group. The incident triggered backlash on social media and raised questions about the singer’s political affiliations.

The new statement does not provide details about any ongoing investigations or potential legal outcomes. It also does not specify whether the impersonators are currently under any criminal charges.

As of now, Morrissey has not announced any further releases or tour dates. The singer’s next public appearance is expected to be at a scheduled performance in late 2026, though no official confirmation has been issued.

The case remains a developing story, with the singer’s legal team reportedly exploring options for further action. The outcome will likely influence how artists protect themselves against online defamation and impersonation in the future.