Ed Sheeran Breaks Silence on Macklemore Exit From US Tour Over Palestine Remarks

Ed Sheeran has addressed the controversy surrounding rapper Macklemore’s removal from his US Loop Tour, saying the decision was made by the tour promoter after several venues indicated they would not host the concerts if Macklemore remained on the lineup.

In a statement shared on social media, Sheeran said he had spent the week speaking with venues and trying to find a solution but was ultimately unable to reverse the decision. He stressed that removing Macklemore was not his choice and said he wanted to continue the tour for fans, musicians and crew members who depended on the shows.

Sheeran also spoke about the Israel-Palestine conflict, saying he was deeply concerned about the situation but generally did not use his professional platform to make political statements. He said his decision to remain publicly quiet should not be interpreted as indifference and expressed respect for Macklemore’s decision to speak openly about his views.

The dispute began after Macklemore, whose real name is Ben Haggerty, expressed support for Palestinians during a September 4 performance at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium. He said “Free Palestine” and performed his protest song Hind’s Hall. His comments drew criticism from some Jewish and pro-Israel groups, with the Israeli-American Council calling for his removal.

Macklemore later said pressure from stadium owners contributed to his removal. Robert Kraft, owner of the New England Patriots and Gillette Stadium, confirmed that he had objected to Macklemore performing at the venue, citing his remarks and what he described as a broader history of anti-Semitic rhetoric and imagery. Macklemore has rejected the characterization of his comments as anti-Semitic.

The controversy intensified when all four remaining support acts announced that they would leave Sheeran’s tour. Aaron Rowe, Beoga, Lukas Graham and Finneas each cited solidarity with Macklemore and concerns about artists being unable to speak publicly about the conflict.

The episode has widened into a debate over artistic expression, venue influence and the place of political speech at major concerts, while Sheeran’s Loop Tour continues.