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The Ed Sheeran Loop Tour has lost four supporting acts following Macklemore’s removal from its upcoming shows. Aaron Rowe, Beoga, Lukas Graham and Finneas withdrew Tuesday in solidarity with the rapper.
Macklemore was removed after delivering pro-Palestinian remarks during Sheeran’s Sept. 4 and 5 concerts at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Sheeran said the tour promoter and venue operators made the final decision.
Four Acts Leave the Ed Sheeran Loop Tour
Irish singer-songwriter Aaron Rowe and Danish pop band Lukas Graham were scheduled to support Sheeran during his remaining North American concerts. Irish folk group Beoga had also been performing several songs during Sheeran’s set.
Finneas, a Grammy-winning singer, songwriter and producer, was scheduled for six South American dates later this year. He announced his departure Tuesday afternoon.
“Artists must not be silenced when they speak up for the oppressed,” Finneas wrote on social media. He added that he stood with Palestine and its people.
Rowe called the decision difficult because of his friendship with Sheeran. However, he said he could not continue after Macklemore’s removal.
Beoga cited its commitment to Irish Artists for Palestine. Meanwhile, Lukas Graham said wealth should not determine who may discuss war and civilian suffering.
The four departures leave Sheeran without the supporting artists previously announced for the affected dates. No replacement lineup had been announced as of Tuesday evening. The Associated Press confirmed the withdrawals.
Why Macklemore Was Removed
During his New Jersey appearances, Macklemore discussed the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the occupied West Bank. He also said “Free Palestine” before performing “Hind’s Hall,” his protest song supporting Palestinians.
Macklemore later said several stadium operators would not host concerts featuring him. Messina Touring Group said venues warned that his continued participation could lead to cancellations affecting hundreds of thousands of fans.
Robert Kraft was among the venue owners who objected. The Kraft Group owns Gillette Stadium, where Sheeran has two September concerts scheduled.
Kraft said his decision reflected Macklemore’s recent comments and what he described as a history of antisemitic rhetoric and imagery. He also expressed willingness to meet with Macklemore.
During the MetLife performance, Macklemore told Jewish audience members that his criticism of Israel was not criticism of them. He has repeatedly presented his statements as opposition to Israel’s actions in Gaza.
Sheeran Says Removal Was Not His Decision
Sheeran said Macklemore’s contract was with the promoter, not with him. He also said he held discussions with venues, promoters and activists in search of a solution.
“Macklemore coming off tour was the promoter’s decision, it was not mine,” Sheeran wrote. He said he respects Macklemore’s commitment but does not use his own concerts as political forums. Sheeran’s complete position was reported by Variety.
The Ed Sheeran Loop Tour remains scheduled to resume Sept. 19 in Philadelphia. Additional stops include Foxborough, Atlanta, Indianapolis, Charlotte and Arlington.
The Arlington concert is scheduled for Oct. 24 at AT&T Stadium. North Texas ticket holders should monitor the official Ed Sheeran website and venue channels for lineup or scheduling updates.