PHILADELPHIA: Ed Sheeran’s Gaza remarks took centre stage Saturday as the singer addressed the Macklemore controversy during his first concert since the rapper was removed from his U.S. Loop Tour.
Speaking at Lincoln Financial Field on September 19, Sheeran apologised to fans for mistakes made during the dispute. He said he had generally avoided acting as a political commentator but felt compelled to address the humanitarian situation.
Sheeran condemned the October 7 Hamas attack while describing the situation in Gaza as catastrophic, unjustifiable and disproportionate. He also said he was discussing ways to support people affected by the conflict.
The concert was Sheeran’s first since Macklemore was dropped from remaining support dates. Messina Touring Group previously said upcoming venues had warned that shows could not proceed with Macklemore on the lineup. Sheeran said the promoter, not him personally, made the removal decision.
Ed Sheeran addresses the controversy surrounding Macklemore’s removal from his tour and says, “What is happening in Gaza is catastrophic and unjustifiable.”
“Before I play some songs tonight, I hope it’s okay if I say a few words about this last week,” Sheeran said at the top of… pic.twitter.com/ZhtujolkKK
— Variety (@Variety) September 20, 2026The dispute followed Macklemore’s September 4 appearance at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, where he voiced support for Palestinians during his opening set. Several other supporting performers subsequently withdrew from Sheeran’s tour.
Read: Macklemore Backs Palestine at Ed Sheeran New Jersey Concert
Meanwhile, dozens of pro-Palestinian demonstrators gathered near Lincoln Financial Field before Saturday’s performance.
Fans interviewed in Philadelphia expressed differing views about politics at concerts, while others said they still supported both artists.
Sheeran’s Loop Tour is scheduled to continue with concerts at Gillette Stadium in Massachusetts on September 25 and 26.
Ed Sheeran addressed the controversy surrounding Macklemore’s removal from his U.S. tour during his September 19 Philadelphia concert, apologised for mistakes and described civilian suffering in Gaza as unjustifiable.
