A wealthy owner of a stadium allegedly spearheaded the campaign to remove Macklemore as the opening act for Ed Sheeran due to his pro-Palestinian statements during a performance. The stadium owner, now pledging $2 million US to support the region, made this announcement following Macklemore’s decision to donate $1 million US from his tour earnings to various organizations aiding Palestinians. The challenge was extended to Robert Kraft, the owner of Gillette Stadium, who was asked by Sheeran to match a $2 million US donation from Sheeran before Macklemore intervened.
Kraft did not specify the exact destination of his donation in his statement, but mentioned Sheeran’s request for the contribution. He emphasized his longstanding support for initiatives promoting opportunities for Palestinians and fostering relationships between young Palestinians and Israelis through business ventures and job creation.
Macklemore, also known as Benjamin Hammond Haggery, was initially set to open for Sheeran on multiple U.S. tour dates but was removed following his vocal support for Palestinians at a concert in New Jersey. His remarks, including advocating for a “Free Palestine” and showing solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank, faced backlash from pro-Israel groups, prompting a petition for his removal.
Allegedly, Kraft played a role in Macklemore’s removal, preventing him from performing and influencing other stadium owners to threaten concert cancellations unless Macklemore was dropped from the lineup. Sheeran, in response to the controversy, clarified that the decision to remove Macklemore was made by the promoter and not himself. Consequently, all remaining supporting acts for Sheeran’s tour decided to quit in solidarity.
The tour lineup changes included Danish band Lukas Graham and Irish singer Aaron Rowe replacing Macklemore as opening acts. American singer Finneas, known for collaborating with his sister Billie Eilish, was scheduled to perform on Sheeran’s South American tour dates. Additionally, Irish folk band Beoga, which had been part of Sheeran’s performances since the tour’s inception, was also involved.
Amidst the unfolding events, Finneas emphasized the importance of artists voicing support for the oppressed without fear of censorship. Lukas Graham indirectly criticized Kraft, highlighting that financial status should not dictate who can speak out or which societal issues are acknowledged.
While Sheeran has not made any public statements following the departure of supporting acts, requests for comments from his representative and the tour promoter, Messina Touring Group, have not been answered.
