by Khushi Sira
What is the controversy?
On September 4th 2026, the British singer, Ed Sheeran, faced a difficult moment during his show at the MetLife Stadium. American rapper Macklemore performed his piece as the opening act and suddenly remarked “Free Palestine” as a protest to the war in Gaza.
Following this protest, Macklemore was cut from the tour, and in response, many of the supporting acts quit in his support. In the days and weeks that followed this event was shrouded in controversy.
How have the fans reacted?
Many of Ed Sheeran’s fans have encouraged him to support Macklemore, whilst others say Ed Sheeran is in a no-win situation considering several artists including Aaron Row, Lukas Graham and Finneas have also withdrawn from the tour in solidarity. Some have argued that going to his tour is a waste of money since without the supporting acts they wouldn’t get the experience they paid for.
What did Ed Sheeran say?
Following this event, Ed Sheeran has stated, “I have my personal views on this devastating conflict. Just because I choose not to speak publicly, it does not mean I don’t have them, and it doesn’t mean I don’t care.”
Afterwards, Ed explained that it was not his decision to remove Macklemore from the tour. It was stadium owner, Robert Kraft’s, decision. As a Jewish man, Kraft has argued he felt deeply offended by Macklemore’s words.
What did Macklemore say?
Subsequently, Macklemore has stated, “Ed is my friend. I’ve known Ed for 13 years” but that “he couldn’t get past his public facing, ‘I don’t take sides’”. Macklemore clearly agrees with a few of Ed’s fans: to speak publicly about his opinions on important issues.
Finneas, the brother of Billie Eilish, quit the tour in favor of Macklemore. He said, “Artists must not be silenced when they speak for the oppressed.”
Ed Sheeran has even considered cancelling his next two shows, reflecting the huge impact of the controversy.