Ed Sheeran returns to stage after Palestinian controversy

Vanguard News | 19-09-2026 08:52am |

Ed Sheeran returned to the stage in Philadelphia on Saturday for his first concert since a controversy involving his opening act's pro-Palestinian remarks. Rapper Macklemore was removed from Sheeran's US Loop Tour on Monday after stadium owners objected to him shouting "Free Palestine" onstage in New Jersey earlier this month. Sheeran denied being behind the decision, stating that his tour's promoter was responsible. Subsequently, four supporting acts, including Sheeran's backing band and performer Finneas, quit the tour. The 35-year-old British performer has maintained an apolitical stance amid growing artist protests against the conflict in Gaza and West Bank settler violence.

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