Ed Sheeran Speaks on Gaza War After Macklemore Removal
Ed Sheeran played his first Philadelphia, Pennsylvania concert since Macklemore's removal. Macklemore was dropped as an opener on Sheeran's US Loop Tour.
He had made pro-Palestinian comments onstage. At the Saturday night show Sheeran apologized for "mistakes." He said he felt he must speak about a "humanitarian issue." Sheeran called the Hamas-led attack in Israel "horrific." He described the war in Gaza as "catastrophic and unjustifiable." Sheeran said he was raising a humanitarian issue.
He said the show was not meant to be political. This caused several other acts to leave and support Palestinians.
Protests happened outside Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Some concertgoers tried to sell tickets while others supported Sheeran.
The controversy began after Macklemore's show at MetLife Stadium. That happened in New Jersey on September 4 2026.
Reports say venue owners objected after Macklemore mentioned Patriots owner Robert Kraft. Sheeran said venues threatened to cancel shows if Macklemore stayed.
Key Terms 4
- Macklemore An American rapper who was Ed Sheeran's opening act on tour.
- Robert Kraft Owner of the New England Patriots football team.
- Hamas-led attack The 2023 attack on Israel that started the Gaza war.
- MetLife Stadium A large stadium in New Jersey used for concerts and games.