Sheeran Addresses Macklemore Tour Dispute in Philadelphia

Ed Sheeran addressed the turmoil surrounding his U.S. Loop tour during a Philadelphia concert after Macklemore was removed as an opening act following pro-Palestinian comments made onstage. Sheeran said promoters and venues made the decision, while Macklemore alleged that pressure from venue owner Robert Kraft contributed to his dismissal; Kraft acknowledged involvement and cited what he described as Macklemore’s broader history of antisemitic rhetoric and imagery. Sheeran’s other support acts and backing band withdrew in solidarity, and a hastily assembled band joined him in Philadelphia. Sheeran expressed concern about venue censorship, defended performers’ freedom of expression, and said Gaza’s humanitarian crisis was “catastrophic and unjustifiable,” while condemning the Oct. 7 attack in Israel and saying his concerts should remain safe spaces centered on unity. He revealed that he had considered canceling the tour, feared security problems, and felt abandoned by some friends and family, but continued after strong ticket sales reassured him that fans remained supportive. Protesters gathered outside the stadium, Ireland’s Classic Hits Radio removed his music from its playlist from Sept. 17 for the foreseeable future, and fans and social-media users remained divided over his handling of the dispute.