Ed Sheeran Reveals Why Macklemore Was Really Dropped From Tour After Venues Threatened To Pull Shows

English singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran has revealed why Macklemore was dropped from his US tour, insisting the decision was not his after venues threatened to pull upcoming concerts if the rapper remained on the bill.

The British singer broke his silence on Tuesday following mounting controversy over Macklemore's removal from the US leg of the Loop Tour. The rapper had made pro-Palestinian remarks during Sheeran's New Jersey concerts earlier this month, including declaring 'Free Palestine' from the stage.

Venues Threatened To Pull Ed Sheeran Shows

In a statement shared on Instagram, Sheeran said the situation escalated after Macklemore's performances at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, when venues hosting upcoming dates objected to his continued involvement.

'After Macklemore's performances at my New Jersey shows, venues on my upcoming tour dates communicated that they would pull the shows if he was still supporting,' Sheeran said.

The 35-year-old added that he was told the objections related to how Macklemore had conveyed part of his message during the performances, rather than everything he had said.

Messina Touring Group, which promotes the US leg of Sheeran's tour, separately confirmed that venues had said they would not allow concerts to proceed with Macklemore on the line-up. The promoter warned that the dispute could have resulted in tour cancellations affecting hundreds of thousands of fans.

Ed Sheeran Says Macklemore Decision 'Was Not Mine'

Sheeran strongly denied personally making the decision to remove Macklemore.

'Macklemore coming off tour was the promoter's decision, it was not mine,' he said, adding that Macklemore's contract was with the promoter rather than him.

Sheeran also explained why he would not abandon the remaining concerts, pointing to fans who had already made plans as well as touring staff, musicians and other support acts who rely on the shows for their livelihoods.

Sheeran Reveals Talks With Robert Kraft

Sheeran said he spent the week trying to broker a resolution with venues and confirmed speaking directly with Robert Kraft, whose Kraft Group owns Gillette Stadium in Massachusetts.

'I spoke with the venues at length all week to try and build a bridge,' Sheeran said.

He added that he held discussions with promoters and activists 'on both sides' in an attempt to find a mutual resolution, but said the venue and promoter decision was ultimately final.

Macklemore had been scheduled to support Sheeran at eight remaining US shows before his removal.

Why Macklemore's Performances Sparked Controversy

Macklemore joined Sheeran's tour after asking to take part last year, according to Sheeran, who said he agreed because he respected him as an artist.

During his New Jersey appearances, Macklemore spoke about Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank and performed 'Hind's Hall,' his pro-Palestinian protest song. His remarks prompted objections from some groups and venue operators, while supporters defended his advocacy.

Ed Sheeran Addresses His Political Stance

Sheeran also responded to criticism of his approach to the Israel-Palestine conflict, declaring: 'I am not complicit.'

He described suffering on both sides as a 'human tragedy' and said choosing not to discuss his personal views publicly did not mean he did not care.

Sheeran said he avoids turning his professional platform into a political forum partly because his audience includes young people and children from different backgrounds.

While saying he respected Macklemore's 'strength of purpose,' Sheeran argued there were different ways to advocate for change.

'I have spent this week trying to build bridges, to find a solution and unfortunately, was unable to do so,' he said.