Ed Sheeran addresses Macklemore tour controversy and speaks out on Gaza at Philadelphia concert

Ed Sheeran has addressed the controversy surrounding Macklemore’s removal from his US tour, expressing sorrow over the devastation in Gaza and apologising for decisions made during the dispute.

Speaking at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on Saturday, the singer said his “heart has been broken” by the loss of civilian lives, particularly children, amid the war in Gaza.

According to footage online, Sheeran described the Hamas-led October 7,2023 attack on Israel as “horrific”, while calling Israel’s genocide in Gaza “catastrophic, unjustifiable and disproportionate”.

“I am making mistakes, and I’m so, so sorry,” Sheeran told concertgoers, acknowledging the criticism surrounding the past week.

Macklemore was dropped from the remaining dates of Sheeran’s Loop Tour after making pro-Palestinian remarks during performances at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium earlier this month.

The rapper said venue pressure contributed to his removal, while tour organisers cited venues’ decisions.

Sheeran said he had spoken with venues in an attempt to resolve the dispute. He also raised concerns about venues pre-approving performance content and stressed the importance of freedom of speech.

The controversy prompted several supporting acts, including Beoga, Aaron Rowe, Finneas and Lukas Graham, to withdraw from upcoming dates.

Despite the fallout, Sheeran said his concerts should remain welcoming spaces for people with differing views.

“My concerts have always been a safe space for everyone, and that matters hugely to me,” he said, reaffirming his commitment to continuing the tour.