Macklemore dropped from Sheeran tour over Palestine support
Rapper’s removal follows backlash over his calls for Palestinian freedom and criticism of Israel’s conduct in Gaza
NEW YORK (MNTV) — US rapper Macklemore has been removed from the remaining dates of Ed Sheeran’s US tour after publicly supporting Palestinians and condemning Israel’s actions in Gaza.
Macklemore had been scheduled to perform at eight of the 10 remaining shows on Sheeran’s Loop Tour.
His removal followed backlash from Zionists over remarks made during a Sept. 4 performance at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, where he called for Palestinian freedom and highlighted the suffering of civilians in Gaza and the occupied West Bank.
The rapper later said several venues had objected to his participation following his statements supporting Palestinian cause, creating pressure on the tour organizers.
Macklemore claimed that Robert Kraft, owner of Gillette Stadium, had opposed his appearance and that other stadium owners followed suit, putting the continuation of some concerts at risk.
Macklemore has repeatedly used his platform to condemn Israel’s military campaign in Gaza and call attention to Palestinian suffering.
He has argued that criticizing Israeli government policies should not be conflated with hostility toward Jewish people and has maintained that his advocacy is rooted in human rights and opposition to violence.
The controversy has exposed the growing pressure facing artists who publicly challenge Israel’s treatment of Palestinians.
Supporters of Macklemore’s position have portrayed his removal as another example of political and commercial pressure being used to suppress criticism of Israel, while opponents accused him of crossing into rhetoric they considered offensive or antisemitic.
The Israeli-American Council had called for Macklemore to be removed from the tour after his remarks, intensifying the campaign against his participation.
The tour promoter, Messina Touring Group, subsequently confirmed that he would not perform the remaining support dates after discussions with venues and other stakeholders.
Macklemore has defended his decision to speak about Palestine despite the professional consequences.
His case has renewed debate over whether artists can openly condemn Israel’s policies and the devastating consequences of its Gaza campaign without facing accusations of antisemitism or losing professional opportunities.
Sheeran’s remaining US shows will continue with other opening acts, including Lukas Graham and Aaron Rowe.
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