Ed Sheeran Addresses Macklemore’s Removal from Tour Over Palestine Comments

Ed Sheeran Addresses Macklemore’s Removal from Tour Over Palestine Comments
Karma Oak

Ed Sheeran has spoken out following the decision to drop Macklemore as a support act from his tour due to comments regarding Palestine, clarifying to fans that he is “not complicit” in the move. The controversy surrounding the rapper began during his opening sets on Sheeran’s US tour, where he delivered impassioned speeches calling for “all human beings to be treated with dignity, respect, and equality” and advocating for a “free Palestine.”

Following these remarks, the rapper faced significant backlash, including calls for his removal by the Israeli-American Council. While Macklemore maintained that striving for equality should not be controversial, it was eventually confirmed that he had been removed from the lineup. Messina Touring Group, the promoter for the U.S. leg of the tour, stated that the decision was driven by venues refusing to host concerts featuring the rapper.

Addressing the situation, Ed Sheeran emphasized that the decision was not his own. In a statement shared on Instagram, the singer expressed that he was “appalled by the conflict between Israel and Palestine” and described the suffering on both sides as a “tragedy.” He explained that he had attempted to mediate the situation, speaking with venue owners—including Robert Kraft—and promoters to find a resolution, but ultimately, the decision remained out of his hands.

Ed Sheeran and Macklemore on stage together

Ed Sheeran and Macklemore on stage together. CREDIT: Kevin Winter/Getty Images

“Macklemore coming off tour was the promoter’s decision, it was not mine,” Ed Sheeran wrote. “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.” He further clarified that he chooses to keep his personal views on the conflict private to ensure his platform remains a space for “unity, joy, escapism, and love.”

The situation has drawn reactions from across the music industry. While some, such as P!NK and Boy George, have been critical of the rapper's comments, others have offered support. Foo Fighters guitarist Chris Shiflett defended the rapper’s right to speak, stating on social media that he does not subscribe to the “shut up and play” mentality.