Ed Sheeran speaks out on Macklemore tour backlash, denies making the decision to ax rapper

Ed Sheeran has spoken out after Macklemore was removed from the remaining dates of his US tour, firmly denying that he personally made the decision to drop the rapper following his pro-Palestinian comments.

Macklemore , whose real name is Benjamin Haggerty, was initially booked as a support act for Sheeran’s Loop Tour. However, his appearance at two shows at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium sparked controversy after he used the stage to express support for Palestinians and call for a “Free Palestine.”

During his performance, Macklemore also performed his protest song “Hind’s Hall,” which addresses the war in Gaza and demonstrations supporting Palestinians.

His comments quickly drew criticism from some Jewish advocacy organizations and others who accused him of promoting antisemitic rhetoric.

The backlash eventually affected Sheeran’s tour plans. Messina Touring Group, the promoter handling the US dates, said several venues had informed the company they wouldn’t allow Macklemore to perform.

The promoter warned that keeping him on the bill could have resulted in shows being cancelled and affected hundreds of thousands of fans.

Macklemore subsequently claimed that Robert Kraft, the owner of Gillette Stadium, had played a major role in the decision.

Kraft later defended his position, saying Macklemore’s recent actions and what he described as a broader history of antisemitic rhetoric meant the rapper shouldn’t be given a platform at the venue.

Sheeran explains why he stayed out of the political dispute

Sheeran has now made clear that he didn’t personally choose to remove Macklemore. In an Instagram statement, the British singer said the rapper’s contract was with the promoter rather than with him, making the decision to take him off the tour the promoter’s responsibility.

“ Macklemore’s contract for the tour was with the promoter, not me,” wrote Sheeran .

“I would never let down the fans who had made plans, nor would I abandon the touring crew and the other support acts and musicians who rely on me for work and to make a living.”

Sheeran also said he’d spent much of the week speaking with venues and other parties in an attempt to find a solution.

At the same time, Sheeran addressed criticism over his reluctance to publicly take a side in the Israel-Palestine conflict.

He said he’s deeply troubled by the suffering caused by the conflict and has personal views, but he’s deliberately chosen not to turn his professional platform into a political forum.

“I am not complicit. I have my personal views on this devastating conflict,” Sheeran added. “Just because I choose not to speak publicly, it doesn’t mean I don’t have them, and it doesn’t mean I don’t care.”

The singer argued that his concerts attract people from different backgrounds, including young fans, and said he wants his shows to remain places of safety, connection and openness.

Sheeran also expressed respect for Macklemore’s willingness to publicly stand behind his beliefs, suggesting that people can support peace through different approaches.

Macklemore , meanwhile, has defended his decision to speak out, arguing that his advocacy for Palestinians is more important than the professional consequences he may face.