Fox News host Jesse Watters appeared to question the reasoning behind rapper Macklemore's removal from Ed Sheeran's tour due to pro-Palestine statements. During a segment on "The Five," Watters asked, "So what did he say that was bad?" and "He said ‘Free Palestine?’ Is that all?" Watters initially suggested that "Free Palestine" did not constitute hate speech.
Macklemore's pro-Palestine remarks, which included showing footage of protests and graphics, led to his removal as an opening act from Ed Sheeran's tour. Sheeran stated that the decision was not his, but all other supporting acts subsequently withdrew in solidarity with Macklemore. Robert Kraft, owner of the New England Patriots and Gillette Stadium, confirmed that Macklemore was removed from a planned performance at his venue due to rhetoric and imagery he deemed "hurtful to the Jewish community."
Despite his initial questioning, Watters ultimately joined his co-hosts in justifying Kraft's decision, stating, "If Bob Kraft doesn’t want you there … you’re gone! Who cares?"
Fox News host Greg Gutfeld had previously called Macklemore "scum" for accusing Israel of genocide. This statement from Gutfeld came despite the International Criminal Court issuing warrants for war crimes against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in 2024. Gutfeld also suggested that Palestinians "deserved" the death and devastation resulting from the October 7 Hamas attack, which killed approximately 1,200 people, contrasting with the subsequent Palestinian death toll that has surpassed 73,000, according to reports.