Ticketmaster Battles Ticket Scalpers for Harry Styles Fans

Ticketmaster has cancelled thousands of tickets acquired through fraudulent means and will make them available again to legitimate fans at their original prices for Harry Styles’ New York residency. This action addresses a significant scalping operation that drove up prices for the popular singer’s ‘Together, Together’ tour.

Addressing a Major Scalping Operation

Ticketmaster is actively combating a substantial ticket scalping scheme targeting Harry Styles' upcoming performances at Madison Square Garden in New York City. The company identified and intercepted numerous fraudulent accounts used by scalpers intending to resell tickets at inflated prices.

Targeting Affordable and Sought-After Seats

This operation specifically focused on securing the most affordable and highly desired seats, capitalizing on the high demand for Styles’ ‘Together, Together’ tour. Ticketmaster President Saumil Mehta explained the issue and the steps taken to address it in a message to fans.

Releasing Tickets to Legitimate Fans

The illegally obtained tickets – none of which had been transferred – have been cancelled and are being released back to fans at their original price. Saumil Mehta emphasized that no genuine fans will have their tickets revoked and those who purchased through official channels are unaffected.

Following Previous Price Concerns

This discovery follows earlier frustration regarding VIP packages for the 30-night residency, which reached prices as high as $1,667. Ticketmaster provided a breakdown of ticket prices, including fees, to demonstrate affordability, stating that 19% of tickets cost $50 or less, 77% are under $95, and all are priced below $130.

Ticket Request Window

Fans can request tickets through a new release window by submitting a form between noon EDT on April 30th and 5pm EDT on May 1st, requesting up to four tickets for two shows. Successful applicants will be automatically charged, and confirmation emails will be sent by May 8th at 11:50pm.

Broader Context: Legal Challenges and Tour Details

This crackdown follows a recent federal jury decision finding that Ticketmaster and its parent company, Live Nation, exert excessive control over major concert venues, a ruling Live Nation plans to appeal. Harry Styles’ ‘Together, Together’ tour includes 50 shows across multiple continents, including a record-breaking 12 nights at Wembley Stadium in London.

Economic Impact of the Tour

While Taylor Swift’s UK concerts generated nearly £1 billion in revenue, Styles is concentrating his UK performances in London. The Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR) estimates that over one million ticketholders will contribute £709 million to the London economy. Dates have also been announced for Amsterdam, São Paulo, Mexico City, Melbourne and Sydney, with general sales beginning on January 29th and 30th.