Ed Sheeran addresses Macklemore's removal from U.S. tour, cites venue decisions

<p>Ed Sheeran addressed Macklemore’s removal from his U.S. tour on September 15, 2026, stating that the decision was made by the concert promoter and venues, not by him. Sheeran expressed concern over the conflict between Israel and Palestine, describing the suffering on both sides as a "human tragedy," in a statement shared on Instagram after Macklemore accused Sheeran and tour organizers of sidelining him due to his pro-Palestinian remarks.</p><p>Following Sheeran's statement, four supporting acts withdrew from the Loop Tour in solidarity with Macklemore, including Aaron Rowe, Beoga, Lukas Graham, and Finneas. Sheeran noted that Macklemore had requested to join his tour last year, which he agreed to due to his respect for the artist.</p><p>Macklemore claimed that Sheeran informed Robert Kraft, owner of the New England Patriots, who allegedly rallied other stadium owners against allowing the rapper to perform. According to Macklemore, the venues issued an ultimatum: if he remained on the tour, Sheeran would not be allowed to perform in their venues.</p><p>In contrast, Sheeran stated that after Macklemore’s performances in New Jersey, venues for upcoming tour dates communicated that they would cancel the shows if Macklemore stayed on the lineup. He mentioned that he attempted to negotiate with the venues and promoters to find a resolution, including discussions with Kraft.</p><p>Sheeran clarified, "Macklemore coming off tour was the promoter’s decision, it was not mine. Macklemore’s contract for the tour was with the promoter, not me." He emphasized that he has avoided using his platform for political purposes, as his audience includes young people and children from diverse backgrounds, and concertgoers expect a non-political environment.</p><p>Sheeran stated, "I respect Macklemore’s strength of purpose to stand up and shout for what he believes. However, there is room for multiple approaches to the same end: peace." He also rejected the notion that his silence on political matters indicated indifference, stating, "I am not complicit. I have my personal views on this devastating conflict."</p><p>Sheeran expressed his commitment to preserving the tour while considering the concerns of venues, promoters, fans, crew members, and support acts. He concluded that despite his efforts to find a solution, he was ultimately unable to do so.</p><p>In response to the situation, Finneas announced his withdrawal from the upcoming tour dates, stating, "Artists must not be silenced when they speak up for the oppressed." Aaron Rowe also withdrew, citing a need to be true to his beliefs regarding the situation in Palestine. Lukas Graham expressed gratitude for his friendship with Sheeran but felt he could not continue with the tour under the current circumstances.</p><p>Macklemore was removed from the remaining U.S. dates of Sheeran’s tour after performing his pro-Palestinian song "Hind’s Hall." The concert promoter, Messina Touring Group, stated that venues would not allow a concert to take place with Macklemore on the lineup, which would lead to the cancellation of the tour.</p><p>Macklemore reiterated his stance, emphasizing the plight of the Palestinian people and stating, "The victims are the Palestinian people. The men, women and children who have been killed, starved, displaced and forced to live through unimaginable violence." Kraft defended his decision, citing a commitment to providing a welcoming environment and ensuring that events do not promote hate speech.</p><p>Kraft's statement acknowledged the suffering of innocent Palestinians but emphasized that advocacy should not come at the expense of the Jewish community. He expressed a desire to discuss the matter with Macklemore, stating, "Ultimately our goal is the same – peace for all people, an end to suffering, and an end to all hate." Macklemore concluded by expressing hope that his relationship with Sheeran would not be damaged, while standing firm in his beliefs.</p>