# Ed Sheeran concert amid Macklemore controversy

> Fans and pro-Palestinian protesters gathered outside Ed Sheeran's Philadelphia show after the rapper was dropped for his political remarks.
- Title: Ed Sheeran concert amid Macklemore controversy · BBC News
- Summary: Fans and pro-Palestinian protesters gathered outside Ed Sheeran's Philadelphia show after the rapper was dropped for his political remarks. A major concert…
- Keywords: ed sheeran, macklemore, pro-palestinian activism, concert, philadelphia, artist controversy, free speech, political expression, live music, news, world, Sheeran
- Source: BBC News — https://bbc.co.uk/news/videos/ckd68l9g0gy5o
- Published: 2026-09-20T02:45:43.505+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: ed sheeran, macklemore, pro-palestinian activism, concert, philadelphia, artist controversy, free speech, political expression, live music, news, world
## Macklemore dropped from tour
Ed Sheeran's opening act Macklemore was removed from the tour after making pro-Palestinian remarks, leaving fans and protesters with strong reactions.
## Concert goes ahead without opening acts
Saturday night's Philadelphia show proceeded with Ed Sheeran performing solo, without his usual opening acts or support band.
## Fans arrive with mixed feelings
Concertgoers filing into the venue expressed mixed emotions about the changes to the show's lineup following the controversy.
## Protesters support Macklemore
Outside the venue, pro-Palestinian activists gathered to express support for Macklemore and call on Sheeran to address the controversy.
## Competing voices at the gates
The scene reflected a broader tension between fans wanting to enjoy the concert and protesters using the event to make a political statement.
## Key takeaway

A major concert became a flashpoint for debate over artist freedom of speech and political expression in entertainment.