A wealthy owner of a stadium is reported to have spearheaded the decision to remove Macklemore as the opening act for Ed Sheeran due to his pro-Palestinian remarks during a performance. The stadium owner has now pledged $2 million to assist the region. This announcement follows Macklemore’s commitment to donate $1 million from his tour earnings to six organizations aiding Palestinians, including the UN agency for Palestinian refugees. The stadium owner, Robert Kraft, did not specify the destination of his donation but mentioned that Sheeran had urged him to match a $2 million contribution before Macklemore’s challenge.
Kraft emphasized his long-standing support for initiatives promoting opportunities for Palestinians and fostering relationships between young Palestinians and Israelis through business ventures. Macklemore, also known as Benjamin Hammond Haggery, had initially opened for Sheeran on the Loop Tour but was later removed after expressing solidarity with Palestinians and chanting “Free Palestine” at a performance in New Jersey.
The situation escalated when pro-Israel groups criticized Macklemore’s remarks, leading to a petition for his removal. Kraft allegedly played a role in Macklemore’s expulsion, with the artist claiming that Kraft influenced other stadium owners to threaten concert cancellations if he remained on the tour lineup. In response, Sheeran defended his decision not to take a public stance on the matter and clarified that the decision to remove Macklemore was made by the promoter, not him.
Following these events, all of Sheeran’s remaining supporting acts decided to quit the tour. Danish band Lukas Graham and Irish singer Aaron Rowe were set to replace Macklemore for the remaining U.S. tour dates. Various artists, including Finneas and Beoga, expressed support for Macklemore and emphasized the importance of not silencing voices advocating for the oppressed.
As of now, Sheeran has not publicly commented on the situation, and his representative has not responded to requests for statements. Additionally, the tour promoter, Messina Touring Group, has not provided any comments on the matter.