In a significant development within the music industry, rapper Macklemore has been removed as the opening act for the remainder of Ed Sheeran’s current stadium tour. The decision follows the artist’s vocal and public support for a Free Palestine, which reportedly led several venues to threaten cancellations if he remained on the lineup.
The controversy intensified following a performance at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey earlier this month, where Macklemore utilized his platform to advocate for humanitarian causes. According to reports from Rolling Stone, multiple major venues—including Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, and Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta—objected to his continued participation in the tour.
During his recent set, the rapper addressed the audience directly, stating, “To all of my Jewish brothers and sisters: Criticism of Israel, criticism of apartheid, being against genocide in no way is a criticism of you. My message is for peace. Love. For all human beings to be treated with dignity, respect, and equality.”
He further expanded his message of advocacy, adding, “So I say free Palestine. I say free Lebanon. I say free Cuba. I say free Congo, free Sudan, free all people in America living in fear over this terrorist organization ICE. None of us will be free until we are all free.” Despite his stated intent of promoting universal human rights, the backlash from venue management ultimately resulted in his removal from the tour’s upcoming schedule.
