By Onyx Bugett | TalkLife News
Updated September 15, 2026: Ed Sheeran says he did not personally remove Macklemore from his U.S. tour after the rapper’s pro-Palestinian comments. According to Sheeran, the decision was made by the tour’s promoters.
Macklemore said he was removed as an opening act following comments made during a September 5 performance at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. The Grammy-winning rapper said multiple venues told the promoter they would not permit him to perform. He said he did not blame Sheeran and maintained that his criticism was not directed at Jewish people.
Sheeran clarifies his role
Sheeran said the promoters, not he personally, made the decision. He declined to be drawn into a broader public discussion about the war in Gaza.
The clarification matters because the initial announcement led some online commentary to imply that Sheeran had personally dismissed Macklemore. The available evidence does not support that characterization.
The dispute
Macklemore has used performances to advocate for Palestinians and performed his protest song “Hind’s Hall” at MetLife Stadium. Representatives connected to some venues have argued that his broader rhetoric crossed into antisemitism. Macklemore disputes that characterization.
What is confirmed
Macklemore’s removal, his public explanation and Sheeran’s statement that promoters made the decision are confirmed. The promoters have not publicly disclosed the complete internal process or the role played by every venue.
The controversy raises a broader cultural question about political speech at concerts and the authority private promoters and venues exercise over booked performers. Supporting Palestinian rights and opposing antisemitism are not mutually exclusive positions, and responsible coverage should avoid treating either community as responsible for a performer’s statements.
Sources: Associated Press original report; Associated Press update, September 15, 2026.
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