Rosie O’Donnell used her platform on Ireland’s The Late Late Show to launch a sharp attack on singer Ed Sheeran, accusing him of “siding with a billionaire elite” and of “supporting genocide” in the ongoing Israel‑Palestinian conflict. The remarks came after host Patrick Kielty asked about the controversy surrounding New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft, Ed Sheeran and rapper Macklemore.
O’Donnell’s accusations
“I think Ed Sheeran made a very bad mistake and that he will come to understand the ramifications of siding with a billionaire elite, in supporting genocide rather than the people who are saying, ‘This is wrong. We will not stand for it. We are human beings and each human life matters and that’s what’s the most important thing,'” O’Donnell told the audience.
She also singled out Kraft, describing him as part of the “most corrupt people in the United States” and alleging that he and other wealthy individuals have performed a “coup” on the American government.
Comments from other media figures
Christian Toto, host of “Hollywood in Toto,” echoed O’Donnell’s sentiment, saying there is “only one acceptable answer for celebrities” on the Israel‑Palestine issue: to say “Free Palestine” and nothing else. Toto likened the pressure on entertainers to the response to the Black Lives Matter movement, suggesting that celebrities adopt the mantra to gain approval within their circles.
“Most artists know better than to alienate audiences with their political views,” Toto added, citing the Springsteens, Morellos and Macklemores as exceptions. He argued that high concert ticket prices limit most musicians from using their platforms for political statements.
Reaction from critics
Nick Fondacaro, associate editor for NewsBusters, called O’Donnell’s statements “irrational and unhinged,” noting the danger of claiming a coup in America when political violence is on the rise. He also highlighted the hypocrisy of O’Donnell, a multimillionaire, criticizing Kraft’s property rights while she herself enjoys similar wealth.
Background on the Macklemore controversy
Macklemore was removed from Ed Sheeran’s “Loop Tour” after repeatedly chanting “Free Palestine” and performing a song titled “Hind’s Hall” at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. According to tour promoter Messina Touring Group, several venue owners, including Kraft, indicated they would not allow concerts to proceed with Macklemore on the lineup.
Robert Kraft defended his decision, citing Macklemore’s “broader history of antisemitic rhetoric and imagery.” He stressed that supporting Palestinians and opposing Hamas and antisemitism are not mutually exclusive positions, stating, “Standing with the Palestinian people and standing against Hamas, antisemitism and hate should not be mutually exclusive.”
Ed Sheeran’s response
Sheeran has publicly denied supporting the suffering of Palestinians. After the controversy, he performed in Philadelphia and condemned Hamas’ October 7 attack while also describing the civilian suffering in Gaza as “catastrophic, unjustifiable and disproportionate.” He pledged $2 million toward humanitarian relief and asked Kraft to match the contribution; Kraft agreed, noting his long‑standing support for programs that bring Palestinians and Israelis together.
Macklemore separately pledged $1 million from his earnings on the tour to Palestinian aid organizations.
Calls for balanced coverage
Fox News Digital reached out to Kraft, Sheeran and Macklemore for comment but did not receive an immediate response.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
