Macklemore was removed from Ed Sheeran’s tour after venues threatened to cancel dates due to the rapper's pro-Palestinian stage remarks.

Ed Sheeran has addressed claims by rapper Macklemore that New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft organized a stadium boycott to force him off Sheeran’s tour. Macklemore alleged that venue owners threatened to cancel tour stops unless he was removed following his pro-Palestinian comments at MetLife Stadium. Sheeran confirmed that venues contacted him regarding Macklemore’s stage remarks, but stated the final decision to remove the rapper was made by the tour promoter.

Statements from Sheeran and Kraft

Sheeran stated that he attempted to mediate with venues, including Robert Kraft, but was told the issue stemmed from how Macklemore conveyed his message during performances. Sheeran emphasized that Macklemore’s contract was with the promoter, Messina Touring Group, rather than himself. He added that he avoids using his platform for politics because his audiences do not expect a political forum. Robert Kraft did not deny the accusations, stating that the decision was based on Macklemore’s recent onstage actions and a history of rhetoric he described as antisemitic and hurtful to the Jewish community. Kraft denied that the move was intended to stifle Palestinian advocacy.

Tour Impact and Public Reaction

Messina Touring Group confirmed that multiple venues refused to host concerts with Macklemore on the lineup, noting that cancellations would impact hundreds of thousands of fans. Following the news, another opening act, Aaron Rowe, announced he would withdraw from the tour in protest. Macklemore has received support from various public figures, including politicians like Rep. Pramila Jayapal and Rep. Ilhan Omar, as well as activists and artists. Additionally, the mayor of Dearborn, Michigan, invited Macklemore to perform at a city-sponsored concert.