Ed Sheeran is scheduled to take the stage in Philadelphia today as controversy continues to surround his US tour and the departure of former opening act Macklemore.
Sheeran will perform at Lincoln Financial Field, while a pro-Palestinian rally is also planned near the stadium.
Macklemore left Sheeran’s “US Loop Tour” earlier this week after saying “Free Palestine” during a performance in New Jersey. Reports said the decision came after objections from owners of stadiums scheduled to host Sheeran’s upcoming concerts.
Sheeran has denied playing any role in Macklemore’s removal. He said the tour promoter made the decision.
The controversy has also reportedly led four supporting acts to leave the tour. Sheeran’s backing band and musician Finneas are among those who have reportedly withdrawn.
Sheeran has said he does not want his concerts to turn into political platforms. In an Instagram statement on Tuesday, the singer acknowledged that he has personal views about the conflict in Gaza and the West Bank but said he has chosen not to discuss them publicly.
Meanwhile, Philadelphia police told AFP that they would maintain an appropriate presence around Lincoln Financial Field. The deployment aims to protect concertgoers, employees and local residents.
