Ed Sheeran Says Dropping Macklemore From Tour Was ‘Promoter’s Decision, Not Mine,’ Explains Why He’s Not Speaking Out on Israel and Palestine

Sep 15, 2026 8:10am PT Ed Sheeran Says Dropping Macklemore From Tour Was ‘Promoter’s Decision, Not Mine,’ Explains Why He’s Not Speaking Out on Israel and Palestine

By Jem Aswad, Zack Sharf

Ed Sheeran at the TIME100 Gala held at Lincoln Center on April 24, 2025 in New York, New York.

John Nacion/Variety

Ed Sheeran has commented on the decision to drop Macklemore from his U.S. Loop tour after the rapper made forceful “free Palestine” comments on stage during a political speech during the rapper’s performances opening for the singer at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on Sept. 4 and 5.

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“I am appalled by the conflict between Israel and Palestine,” his statement reads. “The suffering and pain caused on both sides is a human tragedy. There are too many wars across the world causing immeasurable pain, none of which should be tolerated. Macklemore asked to join my tour last year and I agreed, because I respect him as an artist. As with all my support acts, I agree that they play a setlist of their choosing.

Ed Sheeran Says Dropping Macklemore From Tour Was ‘Promoter’s Decision, Not Mine,’ Explains Why He’s Not Speaking Out on Israel and Palestine

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