Madison Square Garden Entertainment (MSGE) has confirmed its use of facial recognition technology at its venues, including Madison Square Garden, Radio City Music Hall, and the Beacon Theatre. The company states that the technology is employed to identify individuals who have been prohibited from entering their properties.
The policy has drawn criticism, particularly after reports emerged that attorneys involved in litigation against MSGE were among those identified and denied entry. Attorney Kelly Conlon, for example, was reportedly flagged by the system and prevented from attending a Rockettes performance at Radio City Music Hall in December 2022 due due to her affiliation with a law firm engaged in a personal injury lawsuit against a restaurant owned by MSGE.
MSGE maintains that its use of facial recognition is clearly disclosed through signage at its venues and is compliant with applicable laws. The company's policy specifically targets individuals involved in active litigation against MSGE, as well as those with a history of disruptive behavior or other violations of venue rules.
The technology has also reportedly been used to identify activists. Evan Greer, an activist, commented on the irony of the situation, noting that while MSGE employs facial recognition to identify certain individuals, the system was reportedly deactivated for a private event, specifically Taylor Swift's wedding. Swift herself has reportedly utilized facial recognition at her concerts to identify stalkers, leading to observations about a perceived double standard where privacy is afforded to some while others are subject to surveillance.
MSGE has not publicly commented on specific instances of the system being deactivated for private events. The company emphasizes that its primary goal is to ensure the safety and security of its guests and staff, and to protect its business interests.
