Macklemore claims he was removed from Ed Sheeran’s tour due to comments he made about the Palestinian territories, which drew criticism from billionaire Robert Kraft, owner of the New England Patriots. According to Macklemore, Kraft contacted Sheeran, threatening that if Macklemore continued on the tour, he wouldn’t be allowed to perform at stadiums including Gillette Stadium.
Kraft’s statement mentioned that his organization prioritizes a welcoming environment and opposes hate speech, identifying Macklemore’s recent comments as crossing that line. Subsequently, Messina Touring Group, the tour promoter, stated that Macklemore would not continue with the tour after several venues expressed their refusal to host him. Sheeran’s representatives have yet to comment on the situation.
