Ed Sheeran Concerts at Robert Kraft's Gillette Stadium Canceled Due to Weather Amid Controversy
The cancellations come as the singer faces backlash for dropping Macklemore from his tour over pro-Palestine remarks.
Ed Sheeran's concerts scheduled for this weekend at Robert Kraft's Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, have been canceled due to severe weather forecasts. The decision was made by stadium and tour management in collaboration with public safety officials.
This cancellation occurs amidst significant controversy surrounding Sheeran's decision to drop rapper Macklemore from his Loop Tour. Macklemore was removed after making pro-Palestine comments during Sheeran's shows in New Jersey earlier this month. The rapper stated that pressure from Kraft, in response to his pro-Palestinian messaging, led to his dismissal from the tour.
Following Macklemore's removal, other opening acts, including Finneas, Lukas Graham, and Aaron Rowe, along with Sheeran's backing band Beoga, announced they would leave the tour in solidarity with Macklemore and Palestine. Sheeran has since apologized for his handling of the situation, stating he did not want to be an "activist musician" but found himself in the middle of a complex debate about freedom of speech.
Macklemore, in turn, announced a series of "Free Palestine" tour dates, with proceeds designated for Palestinian aid groups. He remarked on Instagram that the recent events highlighted a "collective awakening around Palestinian liberation" and the influence of "billionaires that try to censor that call."
Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell's office confirmed that Ticketmaster will provide refunds to ticket holders affected by the cancellations. Campbell's office intervened after nearly 200 consumers reported difficulties obtaining refunds following changes to the lineup.
Sheeran's concerts at Gillette Stadium were also impacted by potential weather-related disruptions to stage construction. The statement from Kraft emphasized that the safety of fans, staff, and everyone involved was the top priority in making the cancellation decision. Refunds are available at the point of purchase, with Ticketmaster processing automatic refunds for those who bought tickets through their platform.