Macklemore Removed From Ed Sheeran Tour After Palestinian Advocacy
Macklemore said Monday that he was removed as an opening act from Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour after several U.S. venues objected to his pro-Palestinian statements.
The rapper said on Instagram that promoters were informed some stadiums would not host concerts featuring him, raising the prospect of cancellations affecting hundreds of thousands of ticket holders. Messina Touring Group confirmed that venues had communicated those restrictions.
Macklemore linked the decision to remarks he made during a September 5 performance at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. He shouted “Free Palestine” while introducing “Hind’s Hall,” a protest song named for Hind Rajab, a 5-year-old Palestinian girl killed in Gaza. During the concert, he said criticism of Israel was not criticism of Jewish people and described his message as supporting peace, dignity and equality.
Gillette Stadium owner Robert Kraft said Macklemore’s recent statements, together with what Kraft described as a broader record of antisemitic rhetoric and imagery, led to the decision there. Kraft said advocacy for Palestinians should not harm Jewish communities or minimize Hamas’ responsibility. He also acknowledged the suffering of Palestinian civilians.
The dispute comes amid continuing international debate over Israel’s conduct in Gaza. Some organizations and experts characterize Israel’s actions as genocide, an allegation Israel strongly denies.
Sheeran has not publicly commented, and his representatives did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Macklemore said he did not blame Sheeran personally and described him as a friend, but said their relationship would not prevent him from explaining the circumstances.
The tour is scheduled to continue at major stadiums in cities including Philadelphia, Atlanta, Indianapolis, Charlotte, Arlington and Tampa. The episode highlights tensions facing artists, promoters and venues when political speech intersects with large-scale commercial events and public concerns about community impact.