Macklemore dropped from Ed Sheeran tour after 'Free Palestine' speech
Rapper Macklemore has been removed from Ed Sheeran's US tour following his vocal pro-Palestinian advocacy during recent performances. The artist stood by his comments, which included performing his song 'Hind's Hall' and calling for a 'Free Palestine' in stadiums.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the ongoing tension between celebrity political activism and the commercial interests of large-scale entertainment tours.
Share Save Add as preferred on Google Gabriela Pomeroy Kristy Sparow/Getty Images Rapper Macklemore has been dropped from Ed Sheeran's US tour after making pro-Palestinian comments on stage earlier this month.
The artist - whose real name is Benjamin Haggerty - had been the opening act for Sheeran's Loop tour, but was criticised by Jewish groups after saying "Free Palestine" at two concerts and making political speeches.
Macklemore stood by his comments on Monday, confirming that he had been cut from the tour and writing in a statement that the real victims are the Palestinian people in Gaza.
Ed Sheeran has not yet commented, and who will replace Macklemore for the rest of the tour is unknown.
The controversy began on 4 September, when Macklemore, a long-time pro-Palestine activist, performed at Ed Sheeran's concert at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Also covering this story
5 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
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Macklemore dropped from Ed Sheeran tour after 'Free Palestine' speech
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Macklemore cut from Ed Sheeran U.S. tour after onstage 'Free Palestine' remarks
Macklemore says he was dropped from Ed Sheeran tour after Patriots owner Robert Kraft organized boycott
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