Singer ED Sheeran has responded to Macklemore's claim that he was removed from the singer's US tour following a 'Free Palestine' speech. The controversy started after Macklemore alleged that his political remarks had led to his removal from the tour. Sheeran has now addressed the accusation, offering his side of the story.

Ed Sheeran says dropping Macklemore from US Tour was 'promoter's decision, not mine'

On 15th September, 2026, Ed Sheeran took to his Instagram account and shared a long note, clarifying that Macklemore was removed from the tour by the promoters and venues, not by him personally. He said the decision followed concerns over how the American rapper expressed his views on the Israel-Palestine conflict during his performances. “I am appalled by the conflict between Israel and Palestine,” his statement reads. “The suffering and pain caused on both sides is a human tragedy. There are too many wars across the world causing immeasurable pain, none of which should be tolerated. Macklemore asked to join my tour last year, and I agreed, because I respect him as an artist. As with all my support acts, I agree that they play a setlist of their choosing."