Three acts that were slated to support Ed Sheeran on his U.S. stadium tour announced they are pulling out following the removal of rapper Macklemore. The decision came after Macklemore shouted “Free Palestine!” during his set at MetLife Stadium on Sept. 5, prompting promoters to drop him.
Acts cite conscience and Irish history
Irish band Beoga, a member of Sheeran’s touring band, and Irish singer‑songwriter Aaron Rowe both posted statements on Instagram explaining their departures. Beoga, identified as a founding member of the Irish Artists for Palestine movement, said, “We are Irish people who understand colonialism… we are committed activists for justice and will continue to be.” Rowe, who had been tapped to replace Macklemore for the remaining U.S. dates, added, “As Irish people we know all too well about genocide, forced famine and violent occupation. I cannot stand by and allow billionaires to use their position of power to silence the rightful voices of those who speak up.”
Finneas also steps away
Finneas O’Connell, the Grammy‑winning producer and brother of Billie Eilish, announced he will not join Sheeran’s South American leg later this year. He reiterated his past advocacy for Palestinian rights, writing, “Artists must not be silenced when they speak up for the oppressed.”
Sheeran distances himself from the controversy
Ed Sheeran responded on Instagram, emphasizing that the decision to remove Macklemore was made solely by the tour’s promoter, Messina Touring Group, not by him. “I would never let down the fans who had made plans, nor would I abandon the touring crew and the other support acts and musicians who rely on me for work and to make a living,” Sheeran wrote. He added that he prefers his concerts to remain a space for music, not a political forum, and that he is not complicit in any censorship.
Promoter and venue statements
The Messina Touring Group did not immediately comment on the recent withdrawals. Macklemore’s publicist also declined to comment.
Earlier, Macklemore claimed that several U.S. venues, urged by New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft, threatened to bar him from performing. Kraft’s statement linked Macklemore’s removal to “a broader history of antisemitic rhetoric and imagery that we believe has been deeply offensive and hurtful to the Jewish community.”
Tour continues amid controversy
Despite the setbacks, Sheeran’s tour will resume Saturday in Philadelphia, with upcoming stops at Gillette Stadium, Atlanta’s Mercedes‑Benz Stadium, and Indianapolis’ Lucas Oil Stadium. Sheeran reiterated his goal of using his platform to foster “peace, safety and sanctuary,” while respecting fans’ desire for a non‑political concert experience.
Original reporting: NBC10 Boston — read the source article.
