Ed Sheeran fans were met with backlash Saturday in Philadelphia, ahead of his return to the stage following the dramatic fallout of his entire slate of opening acts.
Pro-Palestinian protesters descended upon Lincoln Financial Field waving Palestinian flags and chanting “Free Palestine,” one week after Macklemore was dropped from Sheeran’s tour.
Macklemore, who’s full name is Ben Haggerty, was kicked off Sheeran’s Loop Tour following criticism from his “Free Palestine” messaging during his opening act at MetLife Stadium last weekend.
TAYLOR SWIFT QUIET AS FRIEND ED SHEERAN TAKES HEAT OVER MACKLEMORE’S ‘FREE PALESTINE’ CONCERT FIASCO
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Ed Sheeran addressed Macklemore’s removal from his U.S. tour Tuesday, saying the rapper’s departure was ultimately a decision made by the concert promoter and venues — not by him.
The “Shape of You” singer said he was “appalled” by the conflict between Israel and Palestine and described the suffering on both sides as “a human tragedy,” according to a lengthy statement shared on Instagram after Macklemore accused Sheeran and tour organizers of sidelining him over his pro-Palestinian remarks.
MACKLEMORE’S LONG HISTORY OF CONTROVERSY FROM GRAMMY WINS TO ‘FREE PALESTINE’ CONCERT REMARKS
On Monday, Macklemore claimed that Sheeran told him Robert Kraft, the owner of the New England Patriots and Gillette Stadium, had rallied other stadium owners to oppose allowing the rapper to perform.
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On Monday, Macklemore claimed that Sheeran told him Robert Kraft, the owner of the New England Patriots and Gillette Stadium, had rallied other stadium owners to oppose allowing the rapper to perform.
The venues allegedly gave Sheeran an ultimatum: “If Macklemore stays on the tour, you will not be allowed to play in our venues.”
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
