English singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran expressed sympathy for both Jews and Palestinians during a concert at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on September 19, 2026. The concert was the first stop on his tour since rapper Macklemore was dropped from the lineup following pro-Palestinian remarks and display of Gaza war images. Sheeran, performing solo before a crowd of about 50,000 people, acknowledged the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Sheeran stated that he had tried to avoid being a political commentator, instead focusing on unity and humanity through his music. However, he felt compelled to address the humanitarian issue, describing the events at a music festival in Israel on October 7 as "horrific" and part of "centuries of Jewish pain." He also criticized the situation in Gaza as "catastrophic and unjustifiable."
The controversy surrounding Macklemore's remarks and the display of Gaza war images led to his removal from Sheeran's tour lineup. Robert Kraft, owner of Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Massachusetts, where another stop was scheduled, stated that Macklemore would not be allowed to perform there. Other stadiums threatened to cancel Sheeran's shows unless Macklemore was removed from the bill.
Sheeran expressed concern about venues pre-approving content from performers, stating that this should not occur in the free world. He did not mention Kraft or other venue owners by name in his remarks. The Israeli-American Council, which organized a boycott against Macklemore, was not immediately available to comment on Sheeran's remarks.
During the concert, Sheeran spoke personally about the challenges he faced in the previous week, describing it as one of the worst of his life. He expressed uncertainty about whether the tour would continue and if he would be able to perform again. However, he felt grateful for the support of the 50,000-strong crowd.
Sheeran revealed that he had been speaking with people across the spectrum to learn more about the conflict and find ways to contribute to helping victims. He emphasized the importance of listening and learning, acknowledging that he did not know enough about the situation. The singer's comments were met with approval from at least some portion of the audience.
The concert marked a significant moment for Sheeran, who had faced uncertainty about the tour's continuation. He expressed relief and gratitude for the crowd's support, stating that he felt much love from the audience. The event highlighted the complexities of free speech and artistic expression in the context of sensitive global issues.
Key points
- Ed Sheeran expresses sympathy for Jewish pain and criticizes Gaza situation
- Macklemore was dropped from Sheeran's tour lineup following pro-Palestinian remarks
- Sheeran expresses concern about venues pre-approving content from performers
