Ed Sheeran concert protests amid Macklemore controversy

Pro-Palestine protests are planned outside Ed Sheeran's concert in Philadelphia on Saturday, amid ongoing controversy over the removal of rapper Macklemore from the tour lineup. The demonstrations are expected at Lincoln Financial Field, where local groups like the Philly Palestine Coalition have announced plans to protest. The controversy began after Macklemore, whose real name is Benjamin Haggerty, was dropped from Sheeran's "The Loop" tour following comments he made about Gaza. In solidarity, several support acts have withdrawn from the remaining tour dates, including Irish singer Aaron Rowe, Grammy-winning musician Finneas, and Danish singer Lukas Graham. Sheeran's own backing band, Beoga, also stepped down, stating they fully supported Macklemore's message. Ticket prices for the Philadelphia show have fallen significantly, with some available for as low as $76. Prices for other upcoming dates vary, with the minimum for the Foxborough, Massachusetts show on September 25 at $112, and for the final show in Mexico City at 3,550 pesos, or approximately $154.