British pop star Ed Sheeran has said the decision to remove American rapper Macklemore from the remaining US dates of his Loop Tour was made by the tour promoter and venues following Macklemore’s pro-Palestinian remarks at two concerts in New Jersey.
Macklemore, known for hits including “Thrift Shop” and “Can’t Hold Us”, had been performing as one of Sheeran’s opening acts at MetLife Stadium on 4 and 5 September. During the shows, he voiced support for Palestinians in Gaza and the occupied West Bank and repeatedly said, “Free Palestine”.
He also performed “Hind’s Hall”, his 2024 protest song supporting pro-Palestinian demonstrators and criticising Israel’s actions in Gaza. His performances drew criticism from pro-Israel groups, including the Israeli-American Council, which launched a petition demanding his removal from the tour.
On Monday, Messina Touring Group, the promoter of the US leg of Sheeran’s tour, announced that Macklemore would no longer perform at the remaining support dates. The promoter said venues hosting upcoming shows had indicated that they would not allow the concerts to proceed with Macklemore on the lineup.
Macklemore had been scheduled to appear at eight of Sheeran’s remaining 10 US stadium shows. The tour is due to resume in Philadelphia on 19 September.
Macklemore later said he and Sheeran had held several difficult conversations over the situation. He also alleged that New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft had rallied stadium owners against him following his remarks.
Kraft said he believed a line had been crossed in relation to hate and antisemitism. Macklemore has denied being antisemitic and continued to defend his criticism of Israel.
Sheeran had not previously commented publicly on the dispute. In a statement posted on Tuesday, he said he had spent the week speaking with venues, promoters and activists from both sides in an effort to find a resolution.
“Macklemore coming off tour was the promoter’s decision, it was not mine,” Sheeran said. He added that Macklemore’s contract was with the promoter rather than with him.
Sheeran said he respected Macklemore as an artist and had allowed his support acts to choose their own setlists. However, he said he did not want his concerts to become political forums.
“I am appalled by the conflict between Israel and Palestine,” Sheeran said, adding that he has personal views on the conflict but had chosen not to express them publicly through his professional platform.
He said his concerts were meant to bring people from different backgrounds together and offer “a place of safety and sanctuary”.
“I have always used my platform and music to bring people from all backgrounds and cultures together and this won’t ever change,” Sheeran said.
The dispute has also affected other supporting acts. Finneas, Lukas Graham, Aaron Rowe and Irish band Beoga have announced that they will withdraw from upcoming dates in solidarity with Macklemore.
