A billionaire owner of a stadium reportedly orchestrated the removal of Macklemore as the opening act for Ed Sheeran due to his pro-Palestinian statements during a performance. The stadium owner, Robert Kraft, has now pledged a $2 million donation to support the region. This announcement followed Macklemore’s decision to donate $1 million from his tour earnings to six organizations aiding Palestinians and challenging Kraft to match his contribution.
Although Kraft did not specify the recipients of his donation, he mentioned that Sheeran had urged him to match a $2 million donation before Macklemore’s call for action. Kraft emphasized his long-standing support for initiatives that create opportunities for Palestinians and foster relationships between young Palestinians and Israelis.
Macklemore, also known as Benjamin Hammond Haggery, had initially opened for Sheeran on the Loop Tour in the U.S. but was removed from the remaining shows after expressing solidarity with Palestinians and advocating for their rights. His removal was allegedly influenced by Kraft, who purportedly threatened to cancel concerts if Macklemore was not dropped from the lineup.
Sheeran, in response to the controversy, clarified that the decision to remove Macklemore was made by the promoter and was not within his control. Subsequently, all remaining supporting acts on Sheeran’s tour chose to withdraw in solidarity with Macklemore.
New acts, including Lukas Graham, Aaron Rowe, and Finneas, were slated to replace Macklemore on the tour. Finneas emphasized the importance of artists speaking out against oppression, while Graham criticized the notion that financial status should dictate who can voice their opinions.
Sheeran has not commented further on the situation since the supporting acts departed, and neither he nor the tour promoter, Messina Touring Group, have responded to requests for additional information.
