· · 19 sources ·Updated

Ed Sheeran Says Macklemore Removal Was Promoter Choice Amid Israel Conflict

Ed Sheeran stated his team dropped rapper Macklemore from the US tour after venue owners objected to pro-Palestine remarks made during New Jersey shows in September.

Macklemore Dropped From Ed Sheeran Tour After ‘Free Palestine’ Speech
File photo Macklemore Dropped From Ed Sheeran Tour After ‘Free Palestine’ Speech Photo: Variety

Sheeran Clarifies Tour Decision

The British singer explained that the contract belonged to the promoter rather than himself. He claimed he tried to find a solution but could not stop the venues from acting. Sheeran emphasized that he respects the artist who was removed from the lineup.

Robert Kraft Leads Push

New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft reportedly threatened to block the tour from using his stadium. He also contacted other stadium owners to prevent the event from continuing across the nation. Macklemore confirmed that Kraft told him he would be banned from performing at Gillette Stadium.

Other Acts Also Quit

Supporting musician Aaron Rowe announced he was leaving because he refused to let billionaires silence voices. Several other bands followed his example and decided not to continue on the North American leg. The group stated they could not allow wealthy owners to stop people from speaking about Gaza.

All 19 outlets report consistently

No differences in figures, names or dates across these reports.

  • Express Tribune
  • Variety
  • The Guardian
  • Variety
  • The Hollywood Reporter
  • Anadolu Agency
  • Variety
  • The Hill
  • BBC News
  • France 24
  • France 24
  • Express Tribune
  • Middle East Eye
  • Variety
  • Middle East Eye
  • BBC News
  • France 24
  • The Guardian
  • Variety

Reported by

19 independent outlets. Headlines as published. Links open the original report.