Macklemore dropped from Ed Sheeran tour after pro-Palestine speech
Rapper Macklemore was removed from Ed Sheeran's Loop tour after calling for Palestine. Stadium owner Robert Kraft blocked him.
Macklemore was dropped from Ed Sheeran's Loop tour following onstage calls to free Palestine. Robert Kraft, owner of the New England Patriots and Gillette Stadium, barred him from performing at the venue.
Kraft also encouraged other stadiums to do the same. Sheeran's remaining support acts then withdrew from the tour.
Sheeran has distanced himself from the decision, saying it was the promoter's choice. He is taking a neutral stance.
But the move has drawn criticism from fans and commentators. They argue that refusing to take a side on big political issues is itself a political choice.
Sheeran has previously supported campaigns against Brexit and far-right racism.
- Robert Kraft
- Stadium owner
- Gillette Stadium
- Stadium
- Owner of New England Patriots
- Kraft's other role
Why it mattersThe clash raises big questions. Can artists stay neutral on major political issues, or is staying silent itself a choice?
AustraliaNo direct Australian effect yet, though the dispute mirrors global tensions between artists and venues over political speech.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 5 d ago
