From Seattletimes · · 1m 20s
Ed Sheeran Opens Concert With Gaza Comments
Ed Sheeran calls Gaza situation 'catastrophic and unjustifiable' after tour turmoil.
In brief
Ed Sheeran calls Gaza situation 'catastrophic and unjustifiable' after tour turmoil. Ed Sheeran described Gaza as 'catastrophic and unjustifiable' during a Philadelphia concert following controversy over his tour and supporting acts withdrawing in solidarity with Macklemore. Originally reported by Seattletimes.
Ed Sheeran opens concert
Ed Sheeran began Saturday's Philadelphia concert alone after controversy over tour and supporting acts withdrawing in solidarity with Macklemore.
Gaza comments
Sheeran called the Gaza situation 'catastrophic and unjustifiable' after the Oct. 7 attacks, saying he wants music about unity not politics.
“catastrophic and unjustifiable”
Macklemore dropped
Macklemore was dropped after saying 'Free Palestine' during a Sept. 5 show in New Jersey, with New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft urging the decision.
“Free Palestine”
Supporting acts withdraw
Sheeran's supporting acts withdrew within hours of his statement, including Beoga, Lukas Graham, and Aaron Rowe.
Fan reactions
Some fans criticized Sheeran for not taking a stand on Gaza, while others defended his choice to keep concerts political-free.
Donations and promises
Macklemore pledged $1 million for Palestinian relief, urging Robert Kraft to match the gift, with both agreeing to donate $2 million.
“$1 million”
Sheeran's stance
Sheeran insists he spoke with venues to build bridges before dropping Macklemore and says he won't abandon fans or crew.
The bottom line
Ed Sheeran described Gaza as 'catastrophic and unjustifiable' during a Philadelphia concert following controversy over his tour and supporting acts withdrawing in solidarity with Macklemore.
