Ed Sheeran's Gillette Stadium Concerts Canceled Due to Weather Amid Macklemore Controversy

Ed Sheeran's scheduled performances at Gillette Stadium this weekend have been canceled due to an anticipated severe weather forecast, according to a report by TMZ. The concerts, planned for Friday and Saturday evening in Foxborough, Massachusetts, were called off due to a nor'easter expected to impact New England.

A representative for the stadium stated that "Stadium and tour management, along with public safety officials, have been closely monitoring the weather forecast over the past week." The decision to cancel was described as "difficult" and made with the "safety of fans, staff and everyone involved in the shows as the top priority." Ticket holders are eligible for refunds.

The report also noted that stage construction for the events had been paused on Thursday. The cancellations come after a period of controversy surrounding Sheeran's tour, stemming from opening act Macklemore's removal from the lineup.

Earlier in September, Macklemore was axed from Sheeran's tour after making on-stage comments about Palestine. This led to other openers, including Finneas and Lukas Graham, as well as Sheeran's backing band, withdrawing from the tour in solidarity. Macklemore claimed that Gillette Stadium owner Robert Kraft had influenced other venue owners to issue an ultimatum to Sheeran: either Macklemore would be removed, or Sheeran would not be permitted to perform at their venues.

Sheeran addressed the situation on social media, stating that the decision to remove Macklemore was made by the promoter, not by him. He also adjusted his subsequent shows, including removing a secondary stage due to concerns about potential disruptions.

Macklemore announced this week that he will be embarking on a "Free Palestine Tour" in Europe next month. Meanwhile, Robert Kraft has reportedly expressed a desire to meet with Macklemore, though no response has been confirmed.