The Ed Sheeran tour has been embroiled in new controversy with the removal of rapper Macklemore from the United States leg following his pro-Palestinian remarks, amidst a number of other opening acts walking away in solidarity.

Macklemore Removed After ‘Free Palestine’ Speech

Macklemore was set to appear in support of Ed Sheeran on the US dates of his Loop Tour. During his September 4 performance at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium, he told the audience that he hoped to use the huge platform to tell the audience to “say Free Palestine.” He also spoke out on the plight of Palestinians in Gaza and in the occupied West Bank.

The rapper has since confirmed that he was removed from the remaining US shows after venue owners objected to his presence. Tour promoter Messina Touring Group said that venues on upcoming dates have indicated that they will not allow Macklemore to perform. Robert Kraft of Gillette Stadium confirmed that Macklemore would not play at the Massachusetts venue. He cited Macklemore’s recent remarks, as well as what he called a wider history of antisemitic rhetoric and imagery.

Sheeran Says the Decision Was Not His

Ed Sheeran has pushed back against suggestions that he personally removed Macklemore. The singer said the decision came from the tour promoter after venues indicated that they could cancel shows if Macklemore remained on the bill.

“Macklemore coming off tour was the promoter’s decision, it was not mine.” said Sheeran, adding that he tried to find a solution while protecting fans, crew members and other musicians. Sheeran also said he has personal views about the Israel-Palestine conflict but chooses not to make political statements during his concerts.

Other Opening Acts Walk Away

The fallout has not stopped with Macklemore. Finneas, Aaron Rowe, Beoga and Lukas Graham have all announced that they have withdrawn from coming up. Finneas wrote “Artists must never be silenced when voicing their support for the oppressed,” before adding “I stand with Palestine and its people.” Lukas Graham also questioned whether financial power determines what issues artists can speak up for publicly, while Rowe and Beoga cited their own support for Palestinian rights.

Business Fortune believes that this dispute has now turned the Ed Sheeran tour into a wider debate about artistic expression, venue ownership and which performers can go on stage.

FAQs

  1. Why was Macklemore removed from the Ed Sheeran tour?

He was removed after pro-Palestinian comments during his MetLife Stadium performances. The tour promoter said that upcoming venues will not allow him to perform.

  1. Did Ed Sheeran personally remove Macklemore?

Sheeran says no. He said that the decision has taken place by the tour promoter as result of pressure from venues.

  1. Which artists quit the tour?

Finneas, Aaron Rowe, Beoga and Lukas Graham announced that they were withdrawing from touring ahead.

  1. What did Macklemore say on stage?

He told the audience that he hoped to use the huge platform to tell them to “say Free Palestine,” as well as speak-out on the plight of Palestinians in Gaza and the occupied West Bank.

  1. When does the tour continue?

The Loop Tour is scheduled to continue in Philadelphia on September 19, 2026, according to current reporting and Sheeran’s tour information.