Ed Sheeran's Cousin Slams Star as 'Coward' Amid Pro-Palestine Tour Controversy

Jethro Sheeran, cousin to pop star Ed Sheeran, has publicly criticized the singer, calling him a "coward" and "not a good person" following a controversy involving rapper Macklemore's pro-Palestine statements during tour performances. Macklemore had delivered speeches and worn a keffiyeh scarf while opening for Ed Sheeran at shows in New Jersey earlier this month.

In a social media post, Jethro Sheeran expressed shame and disappointment in his cousin's handling of the situation. "Finally the world and all his fans see through him. He's not a good person, I don't like his music so I can't say he's even a good artist," Jethro wrote, adding, "Ed Sheeran! He is shady and he’s dropped Macklemore himself I believe 100 per cent he’s a coward."

Ed Sheeran, who is described as a long-term friend of Macklemore, has stated that the decision to drop the rapper from the tour was made by the promoter, not by him. Insiders told the Daily Mail that the incident left Sheeran "seriously upset" due to his efforts to maintain political neutrality.

Jethro Sheeran also claimed that his cousin "screwed him over" after becoming famous, referencing a past dispute over a song called "Raise Em Up." Jethro had hoped to re-release a remixed version of the track, co-credited with Ed, to help fund his daughter's aspiring music career. However, lawyers representing Ed's record label, Warner Music, reportedly contacted Jethro, threatening legal action unless references to Ed were removed.

Macklemore's pro-Palestine comments at the MetLife Stadium shows on September 4 and 5 led to him being dropped from eight of the remaining ten tour dates. Following Macklemore's departure, other support acts on Sheeran's tour also withdrew.

Sheeran reportedly lost over 200,000 Instagram followers in a single day amid the backlash. He defended his position by stating that his audience comprises young people from diverse backgrounds who do not expect his concerts to be a political platform.

Several celebrities, including Lewis Hamilton and Greta Thunberg, have publicly supported Macklemore's stance on Palestine. Pop star Paloma Faith also commended Macklemore for his "articulate and powerful" message.