Ed Sheeran to Perform Solo After Support Acts Quit

Ed Sheeran is set to resume his Loop Tour in Philadelphia on Saturday, but all of his opening and supporting acts have pulled out in solidarity with Macklemore, who was dropped after saying “Free Palestine” onstage. The artist will likely perform alone, with no replacement acts announced, while pro…

By Felo News Desk · Published Sat, 19 Sep 2026 13:18:22 GMT

Ed Sheeran is scheduled to return to the stage in Philadelphia this Saturday, but the show will be a solo performance after every supporting act withdrew in protest of the removal of his original U.S. opener, Macklemore. The decision to drop Macklemore came after the rapper shouted “Free Palestine” during a September 5 show in New Jersey, sparking a chain reaction that saw Danish band Lukas Graham, Irish singer Aaron Rowe and Billie Eilish’s brother Finneas all cancel their participation.

What Happened in Philadelphia

The venue for the concert is Lincoln Financial Field, a stadium that is owned by New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft. Kraft’s company had previously pressured the tour promoter to remove Macklemore from the lineup. Sheeran publicly stated that he was not responsible for the decision, and that the promoter ultimately made the call. Within hours of that statement, every supporting act announced their withdrawal, leaving Sheeran without an opener or a backing band.

Sheeran has performed most of his Loop Tour shows solo, but he has also collaborated with Irish folk band Beoga on several songs at recent stops. With Beoga also absent, the upcoming performance will be the most stripped‑down version of the tour to date.

Background on the Controversy

Macklemore’s onstage comment was part of a broader debate over artists’ political statements. The rapper’s “Free Palestine” shout was met with swift backlash from venue owners and promoters, leading to his removal from the lineup. Macklemore subsequently announced a $1 million donation to Palestinian relief efforts and called on Kraft to match the contribution. Kraft’s spokesperson said both he and Sheeran have agreed to donate $2 million, though the exact allocation of the funds remains unclear.

Sheeran’s Loop Tour, which began earlier this year, has been the highest‑grossing concert series worldwide, averaging over $7 million per city according to Pollstar. The tour’s financial success has made the recent controversy a high‑profile event for both the artist and the venues involved.

Current Status and Next Steps

Tickets for the Saturday show are still on sale, and Sheeran’s official website has not listed any replacement acts. A coalition of pro‑Palestinian organizations has announced plans to protest outside the venue on Saturday afternoon. The artist has not issued a public statement since the withdrawal of his supporting acts, and his representatives have not responded to media inquiries.

With no backup performers and no official confirmation of a revised setlist, fans can expect a more intimate, stripped‑down show. The absence of the opening acts also raises questions about the logistical arrangements for the performance, such as stage crew and sound engineering, which were previously coordinated with the supporting bands.

Why This Matters

The incident highlights the growing tension between artists, promoters, and venue owners over political expression. It also underscores the influence that large corporate owners can exert over touring schedules and the potential financial repercussions for artists who take a stand on contentious issues.

Key facts

Ed Sheeran will perform solo after all supporting acts withdrew
Macklemore was dropped following a pro‑Palestinian shout
Robert Kraft’s company pressured the promoter to remove Macklemore
Both Kraft and Sheeran pledged $2 million in donations
Pro‑Palestinian protests are planned outside the venue

Why it matters

The event underscores the power dynamics between artists, promoters, and corporate owners, and how political statements can ripple through the live‑event industry.

Frequently asked questions

Will the show still happen?

Yes, the concert is scheduled for Saturday, but it will be a solo performance by Sheeran with no opening acts.

Why did Macklemore get dropped?

He was removed after shouting “Free Palestine” onstage, a move that venue owners and promoters deemed unacceptable.

What about the protests?

A coalition of pro‑Palestinian groups has announced plans to protest outside the venue on Saturday afternoon.

Is there a replacement act?

No replacement acts have been announced; the official website lists no substitutions.

What is the financial impact?

The tour is the highest‑grossing worldwide, and the controversy could affect future bookings and sponsorships.