Ed Sheeran and Robert Kraft connection resurfaces amid Macklemore tour controversy as singer had performed at Kraft’s 2022 wedding

A past connection between Ed Sheeran and Robert Kraft has resurfaced as controversy grows around Macklemore’s removal from Sheeran’s US tour.

Sheeran performed at Kraft’s surprise wedding to Dr Dana Blumberg in New York on October 14, 2022. The singer joined a star studded group of performers that also included Elton John and Meek Mill, with Sheeran later revealing that he sang “Perfect” for the couple’s first dance.

The moment has gained fresh attention after Macklemore said he was removed from the remaining US dates of Sheeran’s LOOP TOUR following his recent pro Palestinian comments during shows at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

Macklemore claimed that Kraft, who owns Gillette Stadium through the Kraft Group, contacted Sheeran and said the rapper would not be permitted to perform at the Massachusetts venue. Macklemore further alleged that Kraft rallied other stadium owners and presented an ultimatum over his continued participation.

Kraft subsequently confirmed that he opposed Macklemore performing at Gillette Stadium. In a statement reported by Variety, he said the venue has a commitment to ensuring events do not provide a platform for hate speech. Kraft cited Macklemore’s recent actions and what he described as a broader history of antisemitic rhetoric and imagery that he believed had been deeply offensive to the Jewish community.

The decision has placed Sheeran at the centre of a dispute involving music, venue policies and political expression. The tour promoter Messina Touring Group also confirmed that several venues would not allow Macklemore to perform, leading to his removal from the remaining dates.

While Sheeran has not publicly addressed the allegations surrounding Kraft’s involvement, the resurfaced wedding footage and photographs have drawn renewed attention online because of the pair’s longstanding connection.