Ed Sheeran defends political stance after Macklemore and Palestine controversy

EntertainmentPolitics
15 Sep 2026 • 11:43 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Ed Sheeran defends political stance after Macklemore and Palestine controversy

  • Ed Sheeran has broken his silence regarding the removal of rapper Macklemore from his US tour following pro-Palestinian remarks made on stage during a concert in New Jersey.
  • Sheeran confirmed Macklemore’s statement that New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft gave an ultimatum banning the rapper from performing at Massachusetts' Gillette Stadium, alongside boycott threats from other venues.
  • The British singer clarified that the final decision to remove Macklemore was taken by the tour promoter, who held the contract with the rapper, rather than by Sheeran himself.
  • Sheeran explained that he spoke at length with venue operators throughout the week in an effort to build bridges and resolve the situation before the promoter made the call.
  • Defending himself against backlash regarding his public neutrality on the conflict, Sheeran asserted that maintaining private views does not mean he is complicit or lacks care for the situation.

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