Ed Sheeran blames promoter for dropping Macklemore from US tour

Ed Sheeran Denies Direct Role in Macklemore’s Tour Removal

Pop star Ed Sheeran has publicly distanced himself from the decision to remove rapper Macklemore from his U.S. Loop Tour, stating that the move was made by promoters and venues rather than himself. The controversy erupted after Macklemore, known for his pro-Palestine activism, delivered remarks and performed songs critical of Israel during his sets at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey in late September 2026. Sheeran, in a series of Instagram posts, claimed he attempted to mediate between venues and Macklemore but ultimately had no authority over the final decision.

“Macklemore coming off tour was the promoter’s decision, it was not mine,” Sheeran wrote, emphasizing that Macklemore’s contract was with the promoter, not him. He also stated that venues had communicated they would cancel shows if Macklemore remained on the lineup, citing concerns over how his message was conveyed during performances.

Supporting Acts Withdraw in Solidarity with Macklemore

The fallout extended beyond Macklemore as four supporting acts—Irish duo Aaron Rowe and Beoga, Danish group Lukas Graham, and musician Finneas—announced their withdrawal from the tour. Their decisions were framed as protests against what they described as corporate censorship of Palestinian voices.

Aaron Rowe, a longtime friend of Sheeran, stated he could not “stand by and allow billionaires to use their position of power to silence the rightful voices of those who speak up.” Beoga, an Irish band, echoed similar sentiments, highlighting their commitment to “dialogue as a means of progressing the plight of the Palestinian people.” Lukas Graham criticized the “bank balance” of venue owners, arguing that “nobody’s bank balance should decide who gets to speak.”

Finneas, brother of Billie Eilish, condemned the removal as an act of silencing artists advocating for the oppressed. “Artists must not be silenced when they speak up for the oppressed,” he wrote, adding that he would no longer participate in Sheeran’s tour.

Robert Kraft’s Role in the Controversy

The dispute intensified after Robert Kraft, owner of the New England Patriots and Gillette Stadium, confirmed he had pressured Sheeran to drop Macklemore. Kraft’s statement to Al Jazeera cited Macklemore’s “broader history of antisemitic rhetoric and imagery” as the reason for barring him from performing at his venue. He emphasized that his decision was not about “diminishing the suffering of innocent Palestinians” but about opposing what he described as “hate speech” targeting the Jewish community.

Macklemore, however, accused Sheeran of capitulating to Kraft’s demands. In a social media post, he claimed Sheeran told him that Kraft had rallied other stadium owners to issue an ultimatum: “if Macklemore stays on the tour, you will not be allowed to play in our venues.” Macklemore rejected this narrative, stating, “I’m not a victim. Ed is not a victim. Pink is not a victim. We have careers, money, opportunities, safety, and audiences around the world.”

Timeline of Events and Conflicting Narratives

The conflict began on September 4, when Macklemore performed his anti-Israel song “Hind’s Hall” at MetLife Stadium, calling for “Free Palestine” and addressing Jewish audiences: “Criticism of Israel, criticism of apartheid, being against genocide in no way is a criticism of you.” The following day, he reiterated his stance, drawing both praise and backlash.

By September 15, venues had reportedly informed Sheeran’s team that they would cancel shows if Macklemore remained. Sheeran claimed he engaged in “direct talks with promoters and activists” to find a resolution but ultimately accepted the decision. Macklemore, however, maintained that the pressure came from Kraft and other stadium owners, who he alleged sought to suppress his message.

Sheeran’s statement also addressed his broader stance on politics, stating he avoids using his platform for public commentary to ensure his shows remain “a place of safety and sanctuary” for fans. He reiterated his personal support for Palestinian causes but emphasized his preference for “diplomacy and open conversations” over “shouting the loudest.”

The situation underscores the complex interplay between artistic expression, corporate interests, and political activism in the music industry. As the Loop Tour continues, the unresolved tensions between Sheeran, Macklemore, and their respective supporters highlight the challenges of navigating contentious global issues through public platforms.