Ed Sheeran’s Philly concert amid protest after Macklemore exit

Ed Sheeran’s first Philadelphia concert since the abrupt removal of rapper Macklemore has sparked protests and artist walkouts. The show, scheduled for Saturday at Lincoln Financial Field, may proceed without opening acts as musicians withdraw in solidarity with Macklemore and Palestinian advocacy…

By Felo News Desk · Published Sun, 20 Sep 2026 00:00:22 GMT

Ed Sheeran is set to perform at Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field this Saturday, marking his first show since the controversial removal of rapper Macklemore from his U.S. tour. The decision to drop Macklemore—after he delivered a pro‑Palestinian speech at a New Jersey venue—has triggered a wave of backlash from both fans and fellow musicians.

What Happened at the Tour

On September 5, Macklemore, whose real name is Benjamin Hammond Haggerty, used his platform to call for “Free Palestine” during a performance in New Jersey. The remarks were deemed “deeply offensive” by New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft, who owns the stadium where Sheeran was scheduled to play. Kraft demanded Macklemore’s removal, citing concerns over the safety of the Jewish community and the potential for violent backlash.

Following the request, Macklemore was pulled from the tour. The move sparked immediate reactions: several opening acts—including Finneas (Billie Eilish’s brother), Danish band Lukas Graham, and Irish singer Aaron Rowe—announced they would not perform in solidarity with Macklemore and the broader Palestinian cause. The decision left Sheeran’s Philadelphia show with no announced opening act, raising questions about whether the performance will proceed as a solo set.

Protests and Public Response

As the concert approached, a group of roughly 30 pro‑Palestinian protesters gathered near the venue, holding Palestinian flags and anti‑Israel signs. Many wore keffiyehs and carried signs reading slogans such as “America is the head of the snake” and “Ready to resist.” They also chanted “Robert Kraft has got to go,” demanding the removal of the billionaire who had pushed for Macklemore’s expulsion.

Despite the small number of demonstrators, the event drew a sizable media presence, with journalists and photographers filling the area. The protestors’ presence underscores the heightened political climate surrounding the Gaza conflict and the U.S. entertainment industry’s role in the debate.

Artist Withdrawals and Industry Fallout

In addition to the opening acts that pulled out, other musicians have expressed support for Macklemore. Danish band Lukas Graham and Irish singer Aaron Rowe, both slated to open at various tour stops, announced their withdrawal earlier in the week. Finneas, who had been scheduled to perform in several cities, also stepped back. These moves reflect a growing trend of artists distancing themselves from events that they perceive as compromising their political or humanitarian values.

Palestinian advocacy groups have called for a boycott of Sheeran’s entire tour, citing the artist’s perceived complicity in silencing criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza. The Palestinian Campaign for the Academic and Cultural Boycott of Israel (PACBI) issued a statement urging fans to boycott the tour, including the upcoming Latin American and European legs.

What’s Next for the Philadelphia Show?

Sheeran’s management has not yet confirmed whether the concert will proceed without opening acts. The venue’s Ticketmaster listings still show tickets available in most sections, with prices starting at $32. However, the uncertainty surrounding the lineup and the potential for further protests could influence the final decision.

Sheeran released a statement asserting that he is “not complicit” in the removal of Macklemore and denying responsibility for the decision. The statement also emphasized his commitment to artistic freedom and his intention to continue performing.

Broader Context: U.S. Opinion on Gaza

The incident reflects a shifting landscape in U.S. public opinion regarding Israel and the Gaza war. Historically, support for Israel was largely bipartisan and unchallenged. Recent events, however, have seen a notable decline in support, particularly among progressive voters and Democratic Party members. The controversy surrounding Macklemore’s removal highlights the growing scrutiny of public figures’ political statements and the potential repercussions for their careers.

In Gaza, artists have responded creatively to the situation. A mural painted by Palestinian artists Anne Redwan and Qusai al‑Helo in the rubble of Gaza City features a depiction of Macklemore in a Palestinian flag, symbolizing solidarity with the rapper and the broader movement for Palestinian rights.

Unresolved Questions

Key questions remain: Will the Philadelphia concert proceed without opening acts? How will the venue and ticketing platforms handle potential disruptions? And what will be the long-term impact on Sheeran’s tour and the broader music industry’s engagement with political issues?

As the event approaches, fans and observers alike will watch closely to see how the situation unfolds and whether the concert will serve as a platform for further debate or simply a musical performance amid controversy.

Key facts

Macklemore was removed after anti‑Israel remarks, prompting artist walkouts
Ed Sheeran’s Philadelphia show may proceed solo
Pro‑Palestinian protesters gathered near the venue
Palestinian groups called for a boycott of Sheeran’s tour
U.S. public opinion on Israel has shifted amid Gaza conflict
Artists and venues face challenges balancing free speech and safety

Why it matters

The incident illustrates how political statements by artists can ripple through the entertainment industry, affecting tour lineups, fan engagement, and public discourse on international conflicts.