Macklemore has been pulled from Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour following backlash over the rapper’s pro-Palestine comments during his opening performances.
On Monday morning (Sept. 14), Messina Touring Group, the longtime promoter of Sheeran’s U.S. tour, announced that Macklemore would no longer appear on the remaining dates after venues reportedly threatened to withdraw if he stayed on the lineup. In a statement to The Hollywood Reporter, MTG said the decision was made to prevent the possibility of canceled shows that could affect hundreds of thousands of fans.
The decision follows Macklemore’s comments during his performances at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium on Sept. 4 and 5, where he spoke in support of Palestinians and told the audience, “Free Palestine.” His remarks drew criticism from pro-Israel groups, leading to calls for him to be removed from the tour.
The Seattle-born rapper addressed his departure in a lengthy Instagram statement, claiming that Sheeran told him Robert Kraft, owner of the New England Patriots and Gillette Stadium, had objected to Macklemore appearing at the upcoming shows. According to Macklemore, Kraft then contacted other stadium owners and presented Sheeran with an ultimatum: Macklemore would have to leave the tour or Sheeran would no longer be able to perform at their venues.
“Ed was in a f**ked up position,” Macklemore wrote, describing Sheeran as someone who is generally apolitical. He said he understood why some artists choose to stay away from political issues because of the potential impact on their careers, but maintained that remaining silent was not an option for him.
Macklemore also stressed that neither he nor Sheeran should be viewed as victims of the situation.
“The victims are the Palestinian people,” he added, while also emphasizing that he is not antisemitic. He said he believes the term is being unfairly directed at people who support Palestine as a way for Israel to avoid accountability.
