American rapper Macklemore has confirmed that he has been removed from Ed Sheeran's US stadium tour over pro-Palestinian remarks made on stage earlier this month at New Jersey's MetLife Stadium.
Writing on Instagram, the Grammy-winning artist stated that multiple US venues informed tour promoter Messina Touring Group that they would prohibit him from performing as the opening act for Sheeran's Loop tour.
Despite having advocated for Palestinian rights for years, Macklemore argued that his sudden removal was driven by the unprecedented platform: "So why is it an issue now? Because I'm sharing a stage with one of the biggest artists in the world, in some of the biggest stadiums in America. At a certain level of exposure, 'Free Palestine' becomes too much of a risk."
Standing by the message
Macklemore stressed he holds no animosity toward Sheeran, though noted that friendship could not prevent him from speaking publicly about what occurred.
The rapper remained defiant regarding his stance: "But if those words cost me the stage, while turning the conversation back to Palestine, then it was the most successful tour I've ever been on."
Macklemore made the remarks during a September 5, performance whilst introducing "Hind's Hall", a track dedicated to Hind Rajab, a five-year-old girl killed alongside her family by Israel in Gaza City.
Addressing the audience in New Jersey, Macklemore said: "To all of my Jewish brothers and sisters, criticism of Israel, criticism of apartheid, being against genocide, it in no way is criticism of you. This message is for peace, love, for all human beings to be treated with dignity, respect, and equality."
Macklemore, known for global chart-toppers including "Thrift Shop" and "Can't Hold Us," has long used his platform to advocate for Palestinian rights.
In 2024, he released the protest track "Hind's Hall," dedicated to Hind Rajab, a six-year-old Palestinian girl whose killing in Gaza caused international outrage.
His removal comes amid the continuing fallout of the Gaza genocide, which killed more than 73,000 Palestinians.
