Ed Sheeran loses 500,000 followers after Macklemore tour controversy

Ed Sheeran has lost nearly 500,000 Instagram followers following controversy surrounding his ‘Loop’ tour in the United States. The backlash began after rapper Macklemore was removed from the tour lineup following his public support for Palestinians and comments regarding the war in Gaza during a performance in New Jersey.

Macklemore alleged that Robert Kraft, owner of the Kraft Group and Gillette Stadium, personally contacted Sheeran to request the rapper's removal. Sheeran has denied personal responsibility for the decision, stating that the promoter made the choice and that certain venues refused to host the concert if Macklemore remained on the program. The situation has led to other opening acts withdrawing from the tour as well.

During a concert in Philadelphia on September 19, Sheeran addressed the situation, stating he had to make “tough decisions” and admitting to making “mistakes.” He issued a statement expressing heartbreak over the civilian casualties in Gaza while also condemning the October 7 attacks and acknowledging the suffering of the Jewish people.