Macklemore Removed From Sheeran Tour, Donates $1M to Palestine

Rapper Macklemore was removed from the remaining U.S. dates of Ed Sheeran's Loop Tour following pro-Palestinian comments made during a September 4 performance at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. The tour promoter, Messina Touring Group, stated that venue owners informed organizers that Macklemore would not be allowed to perform. Macklemore has suggested his removal was connected to his outspoken support for Palestinians. In response, Macklemore announced he would donate his $1 million net earnings from the tour to six organizations supporting Palestinians. He publicly challenged New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft to match the donation. Kraft responded on September 16 via the Gillette Stadium X account, pledging $2 million to aid efforts in the region. Kraft stated that Ed Sheeran had asked him to commit the funds to match Macklemore's donation. Following Macklemore's removal, all four other supporting acts on the U.S. tour withdrew in protest. The incident has drawn reactions from various public figures. Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton pledged solidarity with Macklemore on social media. Children's entertainer Ms. Rachel said she would match Macklemore's donation.