Macklemore Dropped from Ed Sheeran US Tour After Free Palestine Speech 2026

Macklemore has been dropped from the remainder of Ed Sheeran's US tour after making a free Palestine speech on stage. The American rapper's comments at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on 4 September sparked a petition from the Israeli American Council, ultimately leading to his removal from the Loop tour.

What Macklemore Said

During a break between songs, the Grammy-winning artist addressed the audience, expressing solidarity with Gaza and the occupied West Bank. "I want the people of Gaza and the occupied West Bank to know that we have not forgotten about them," he said. The remarks quickly drew headlines and ignited a fierce debate online.

Backlash and Petition

The Israeli American Council launched a petition demanding Macklemore's removal from the tour, citing his comments as divisive. The petition gained traction, putting pressure on tour organizers and venues. In response, Messina Touring Group, the promoter for the US leg of Sheeran's tour, released a statement to Rolling Stone.

Tour Promoter's Statement

Messina Touring Group explained that venues on the upcoming US tour dates would not allow the concert to proceed with Macklemore on the lineup. "As the concert promoter for Ed Sheeran's US Loop Tour, we have been notified by venues on the upcoming US tour dates that they will not allow a concert to take place with Macklemore on the lineup, which would result in the cancellation of the tour and impact hundreds of thousands of fans," the statement read. "After discussions with stakeholders, Macklemore will not be performing on the remaining support dates."

Impact on the Tour

Macklemore was scheduled to open for Sheeran at eight of the remaining ten shows of the US Loop tour, which resumes on 19 September in Philadelphia. The venues that reportedly objected include stadiums in Philadelphia, outside Boston, Atlanta, Charlotte, Indianapolis, Dallas, and Tampa. The decision affects hundreds of thousands of fans who had purchased tickets.

Reactions from Fans and Industry

Fans have expressed mixed reactions on social media. Some support Macklemore's right to free speech, while others believe his comments were inappropriate for a concert setting. The incident highlights the growing intersection of politics and entertainment, and the challenges artists face when expressing controversial views.

Macklemore's History of Activism

Macklemore has long been an outspoken advocate for various social causes, including racial justice and LGBTQ+ rights. His pro-Palestine stance is consistent with his history of using his platform to address political issues. However, this instance has had direct professional repercussions.

What's Next for the Tour?

The Loop tour will continue without Macklemore, with Ed Sheeran set to perform as scheduled. Neither Macklemore nor Sheeran has commented further on the situation. The tour promoter has not announced a replacement opening act.

Key Takeaways

• Macklemore was removed from Ed Sheeran's US tour after a pro-Palestine speech.
• The Israeli American Council petitioned for his removal, citing divisive comments.
• Venues refused to host concerts with Macklemore on the lineup.
• The decision impacts eight of the remaining ten shows on the US Loop tour.
• Macklemore has a history of activism, but this incident led to professional consequences.

Comparison of Tour Details

FAQ

Best Products We’ve Tested and Rated

Our testing team has hands-on reviews of terpenes energy, tea replace alcohol, tattoo removal technology, supplements take tirzepatide, and sun lamp tanning. Every option below was compared across price, build quality, and real-world performance, with honest pros and cons. We update these guides regularly as new models arrive, so the recommendations stay current.

Our testing team has hands-on reviews of trunk sleepaway camp, wristbands gymnastics, wrist wrap ganglion cyst, on cloud shoe flat feet, and shoes capsulitis second toe. Every option below was compared across price, build quality, and real-world performance, with honest pros and cons. We update these guides regularly as new models arrive, so the recommendations stay current.