Good Charlotte Punks Get Ready For French Hatred

Good Charlotte punk twins Benji and Joel Madden are refusing to let anti-American feeling ruin their plans to tour Europe - but they will speak out if anyone attacks their nation.

The rockers, who fly to France to kickstart a European tour at the weekend (22MAR03), are refusing to let the conflict in Iraq wreck their performances, but they're prepared for verbal attacks.

The LIFETIMES OF THE RICH AND FAMOUS brothers are urging Europeans to understand that they're against the war in Iraq, and against the American government - but they support the troops who are risking their lives.

Singer Joel says, "The last time we were in Europe they had a lot to say to us about politics and stuff, but we want to show the world that most of this country doesn't want to kill people.

"We'll encourage kids to educate themselves. You can support our troops, you don't have to support killing people."

Pink-haired guitarist Benji explains, "It's gonna be weird going to France because I'm a loyal person and if I'm in a room and someone's talking bad about a friend I'll be the first person to stand up and say, 'Either leave or stop saying that.'

"So if people have some bad things to say about America, I'm going to represent.

"As far as the war goes, the (American) President has said nothing to me, as one of the masses seeing the news, as to why we're there. He hasn't said they have nuclear weapons pointing at us."