Ed Sheeran has stated that the decision to remove Macklemore from his tour was not his own, asserting that promoters made the call. Sheeran also expressed his distress over the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine, calling it a "human tragedy."
Macklemore had revealed on Monday that he was dropped from the remainder of the U.S. leg of Sheeran's tour following remarks he made at a concert earlier this month in support of Palestinians.
The concert promoter, Messina Touring Group, stated that venues would not permit the concert to proceed if Macklemore remained on the bill, which they argued would lead to the cancellation of the tour and affect hundreds of thousands of fans. Macklemore, however, pointed to Robert Kraft, owner of the New England Patriots and Gillette Stadium, as the primary reason for his removal. He claimed that Kraft had informed Sheeran that Macklemore would not be permitted to perform at his stadium and had rallied other stadium owners to issue an ultimatum to Sheeran: Macklemore's presence on the tour would prevent performances in their venues.
Macklemore described Sheeran as being in a "fucked-up position" and that Sheeran's "typical apolitical stance was being challenged."
Kraft confirmed his stance, stating he has been focused on "the fight against antisemitism."
Sheeran clarified on Tuesday via Instagram that Macklemore's removal was the promoter's decision, not his. He explained that Macklemore's contract was with the promoter, not directly with him. Sheeran stressed that he is "not complicit" and holds his own views on the violence, even if he chooses not to share them publicly.
He further stated that his concerts are intended to be spaces of "unity, joy, escapism, love," and inclusivity, and he respects Macklemore's decision to use his platform for advocacy. Sheeran indicated that he prefers to use his fame to foster diplomacy and keep conversations open, believing that different approaches are necessary for change.
"I have spent this week trying to build bridges, to find a solution and unfortunately, was unable to do so. I know who I am, both as a person and as an artist, and those who know my heart know my values too," Sheeran wrote.