Sheeran and his advisers have discussed whether to continue with the remaining dates of his Loop Tour
Ed Sheeran’s US stadium tour has faced uncertainty following the removal of Macklemore as a supporting act and the subsequent departure of several other artists in protest.
According to the Financial Times, Sheeran and his advisers have discussed whether to continue with the remaining dates of his Loop Tour. The tour was still scheduled to proceed, with Sheeran due to perform in Philadelphia on Saturday, September 19, although cancelling dates could carry significant financial consequences.
The dispute began after Macklemore performed at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium and said “Free Palestine” during his set. Macklemore was subsequently removed from the tour by promoter Messina Touring Group.
The Financial Times reported that New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft told Sheeran that Macklemore would not be allowed to perform at upcoming dates at Gillette Stadium. According to people familiar with the matter, Kraft also warned that other NFL stadium owners could cancel Sheeran’s scheduled shows if Macklemore remained on the tour.
Following Macklemore’s departure, several other supporting acts also withdrew. Finneas, Lukas Graham and Aaron Rowe quit in protest, while Irish band Beoga, which performs with Sheeran, also dropped out. Finneas said artists should not be silenced when speaking up for oppressed people.
The fallout has also placed renewed attention on Sheeran’s longstanding decision to avoid public political positions. Macklemore argued that the singer’s public neutrality had become difficult to maintain, while Sheeran said he has personal views about the conflict but chooses not to express them publicly.
Sheeran has instead sought to focus on humanitarian aid, pledging $2 million for relief in the region and asking Kraft to match the donation. Kraft said Sheeran planned to approach other venue owners as part of an effort to “build bridges”.
The Financial Times reported that cancelling a stadium show could cost Sheeran an estimated $5 million to $7 million per date, according to music-industry business manager Bill Zysblat.
