Rapper Macklemore has been removed from the supporting lineup of Ed Sheeran's U.S. stadium tour following his onstage declaration of "free Palestine" at a recent performance. Messina Touring Group, the promoter for the U.S. leg of Sheeran's "+ - = ÷ x" (Mathematics) Tour, confirmed the decision after venues expressed concerns.
According to a report by Rolling Stone, several venues notified the tour's promoter that they would not permit Macklemore to perform due to his political statements. In response, Messina Touring Group stated that as the concert promoter, they had been informed by venues that Macklemore's inclusion would prevent the shows from proceeding. The company added that after discussions with stakeholders, Macklemore would not be performing on the remaining support dates, a decision that would have impacted hundreds of thousands of fans.
Macklemore, known for hits like "Thrift Shop," made the pro-Palestinian statement during a show, which has now led to his removal from the tour's remaining U.S. dates. The tour continues with other supporting acts. No further details were immediately available regarding the specific venues that raised objections or the exact timeline of the decision-making process.