Katseye Unfollows Ed Sheeran Amid Tour Controversy Over Palestine Remarks

Ed Sheeran's opening acts have withdrawn from his tour and his protegees Katseye have unfollowed him on Instagram, amid controversy surrounding Macklemore's removal from the tour for pro-Palestine remarks.

Fans noticed that Katseye members Megan Skiendiel, Manon Bannerman, Yoonchae, Daniela Avanzini, Sophia LaForteza, and Lara Raj were no longer following Sheeran on Instagram. Lara Raj and Megan Skiendiel also reportedly liked a post from Macklemore announcing his removal from the tour dates.

Tour Disruptions and Pro-Palestine Activism

Macklemore, whose real name is Benjamin Haggerty, was dropped from the remaining dates of Sheeran's "The Loop" tour after making pro-Palestine statements during his performances. He announced he would donate his net earnings from the tour, totaling $1 million, to six organizations supporting Palestinians. Macklemore accused New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft of orchestrating his removal from the tour, alleging that Kraft, along with other stadium owners, issued an ultimatum to Sheeran.

Sheeran, in response, stated that venues communicated they would cancel shows if Macklemore remained on the lineup. He also reiterated his apolitical stance, explaining that Macklemore's statements were perceived as hurtful by some. "I would never let down the fans who had made plans," Sheeran said.

Following Macklemore's removal, all of Sheeran's remaining opening acts – Finneas, Myles Smith, Aaron Rowe, Lukas Graham, and Beoga – announced their withdrawal from the tour. Aaron Rowe stated that as Irish people, they understood issues of genocide and occupation, and could not stand by while billionaires silenced voices speaking up.

Fan Reaction and Calls for Boycott

The cascade of withdrawals and Katseye's social media action has fueled fan speculation and calls for a broader boycott of Sheeran's music. Many social media users have urged Katseye to sever ties with Sheeran completely, citing his co-writing credit on their song "Animal." Some fans are calling for the song to be removed from setlists and for streams to be stopped, as Sheeran reportedly earns royalties from it.

Macklemore's Stance and Broader Context

Macklemore has maintained his commitment to pro-Palestine activism, emphasizing that the focus should remain on the Palestinian people and their right to freedom, dignity, and safety. He detailed the violence in Gaza, including the reported killing of children, and highlighted the greater risks faced by aid workers and activists.

He also addressed accusations of antisemitism, stating that criticism of Israel or Zionism should not be conflated with hatred of Jewish people. "Antisemitism is real. And that is exactly why the word matters too much to be used as a shield against criticism of the Israeli state," Macklemore wrote.

Kraft, defending his decision, stated that Macklemore's actions crossed a line and that Gillette Stadium has a commitment to providing a welcoming environment, free from hate speech. The promoter for Sheeran's tour confirmed that venues threatened to cancel the tour if Macklemore was included.

Sheeran co-wrote Katseye's single "Animal," which was released in July. The singer reportedly reached out to the group to collaborate after their song "Gnarly."