Ed Sheeran says situation in Gaza ‘unjustifiable’ in first show since tour plunged into turmoil
Pop star Ed Sheeran has publicly condemned the situation in Gaza as 'unjustifiable' during his first concert since his tour faced backlash. The controversy stems from the removal of opening act Macklemore, who had previously shouted 'free Palestine' on stage.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the growing tension between artists' political expression and the commercial interests of tour promoters and venue owners.
3:09 Ed Sheeran sorry for 'mistakes' as tour resumes – video Ed Sheeran Ed Sheeran says situation in Gaza ‘unjustifiable’ in first show since tour plunged into turmoil Pop star has faced boycott calls since rapper Macklemore was removed from tour after shouting ‘free Palestine’ at concert
Prefer the Guardian on Google Ed Sheeran has opened a solo concert in Philadelphia with comments about Gaza, saying what is happening is “catastrophic and unjustifiable”, in his first show since his tour was plunged into turmoil.
“My heart has been broken by the scale of devastation and loss of civilians’ lives, of children’s lives,” Sheeran said on Saturday, adding that he wanted his music and shows to be about unity and humanity, not politics.
Also covering this story
13 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
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Ed Sheeran says situation in Gaza is 'catastrophic and unjustifiable' as he opens solo concert
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