Producer Jack Antonoff has publicly criticized singer Ed Sheeran for removing Macklemore from his Loop Tour, stating that Sheeran missed an opportunity to defy pressure from stadium owners regarding Macklemore's pro-Palestine statements. Antonoff asserted that Sheeran should "stand the f**k up" rather than allow billionaires to dictate his tour's lineup.
Antonoff, in an interview with The Guardian, suggested that Sheeran should have considered canceling the entire tour and performing for free outside venues to raise funds, instead of yielding to demands from stadium owners. He referenced Robert Kraft, owner of Gillette Stadium, as one of the individuals who allegedly threatened to cancel Sheeran's shows if Macklemore remained as an opening act. Antonoff stated, "The reason it’s not an anomaly or niche issue is because we all live in a world where billionaires are constantly telling us what to do. So stand the f**k up."
Antonoff also noted his own practice of voicing support for Palestine at his concerts, suggesting that such statements are a "deeply human thing to say" and should not be considered controversial.
Macklemore was reportedly removed from Sheeran's tour in September after performing a "Free Palestine" speech and his song "Hind's Hall" during his opening sets. Following the controversy, Sheeran faced backlash and issued an apology, expressing concern about freedom of speech and stating he felt abandoned by friends and family. He acknowledged making "mistakes" in handling the situation and continued his tour, emphasizing his commitment to creating a "safe space for everybody."
Several artists, including tour openers Finneas, Lukas Graham, and Aaron Rowe, along with Sheeran's backing band Beoga, left the tour in solidarity with Macklemore.
Macklemore has since announced a three-date "Free Palestine" tour in Dublin, Paris, and London, which he reported sold out immediately. He stated the concerts were organized to support musicians who "stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people, regardless of the consequences."
Sheeran's Loop Tour is scheduled to conclude in December after dates across the United States, Latin America, and Mexico City.