The stadium owner, a billionaire, who reportedly played a role in removing Macklemore as Ed Sheeran’s opening act due to his pro-Palestinian remarks on stage, has pledged a $2 million donation to support the region. This announcement followed Macklemore’s decision to donate $1 million from his tour earnings to six organizations aiding Palestinians, including the UN agency for Palestinian refugees. Kraft, the owner of Gillette Stadium, revealed that Sheeran had urged him to match a $2 million donation from Sheeran before Macklemore’s challenge.
Kraft did not specify the destination of his funds in his statement, but emphasized his longstanding support for initiatives that create opportunities for Palestinians and foster relationships between young Palestinians and Israelis through business ventures. Macklemore, also known as Benjamin Hammond Haggery, was initially set to open for Sheeran on ten U.S. tour dates but was removed after his vocal support for Palestinians during a performance at MetLife Stadium drew criticism from pro-Israel groups.
Macklemore accused Kraft of orchestrating his removal, claiming that Kraft prohibited him from performing and persuaded other stadium owners to threaten concert cancellations if he remained on the lineup. Sheeran, in response, clarified that Macklemore’s removal was a decision made by the promoter, not him. Subsequently, all remaining supporting acts for Sheeran chose to leave the tour in solidarity.
Lukas Graham and Aaron Rowe were slated to replace Macklemore as opening acts for Sheeran’s remaining U.S. tour dates, while Finneas and Beoga were scheduled for South American performances. Finneas emphasized the importance of artists speaking up for the oppressed without fear of suppression, while Graham criticized the notion that financial status should dictate who has a voice in addressing societal issues.
Following the departure of supporting acts, Sheeran has not addressed the situation publicly, and his representative has not responded to requests for comments. The tour promoter, Messina Touring Group, has also remained silent on the matter.