A billionaire who owns a stadium is reportedly behind the decision to remove Macklemore as the opening act for Ed Sheeran due to his remarks supporting Palestine. The stadium owner has now pledged $2 million for aid in the region. This announcement followed Macklemore’s commitment to donate $1 million to organizations supporting Palestinians from his tour earnings. The stadium owner, Robert Kraft, mentioned that Sheeran had asked him to match a $2 million donation before Macklemore’s challenge.
While Kraft did not specify where the funds would go, he highlighted his longstanding support for initiatives benefiting Palestinians and fostering relationships between young Palestinians and Israelis. Macklemore, also known as Benjamin Hammond Haggery, was dropped from the tour after his pro-Palestine comments at a concert, which drew criticism from pro-Israel groups.
Macklemore accused Kraft of orchestrating his removal and influencing other stadium owners to threaten concert cancellations if he remained on the bill. Sheeran clarified that the decision to remove Macklemore was made by the promoter, not him. Following these events, all remaining supporting acts on Sheeran’s tour decided to quit.
Danish band Lukas Graham and Irish singer Aaron Rowe were set to replace Macklemore as opening acts on the tour. The American singer Finneas, Irish folk band Beoga, and other acts voiced their support for Macklemore and criticized attempts to silence artists.
As the fallout continues, Sheeran has not commented on the situation, and his representative has not responded to requests for a statement. The promoter, Messina Touring Group, has also remained silent.