nuOct 4, 2026, 18:42

Ed Sheeran announces new opening act following Macklemore controversy

Ed Sheeran has appointed a new opening act for his American tour after the controversial removal of rapper Macklemore. The change followed pressure from venue owners and a wave of solidarity withdrawals from other supporting artists.

Ed Sheeran has introduced a new opening act for his American tour following the removal of rapper Macklemore. During a recent performance, Slade took the stage to perform various hits from The Fray. During this appearance, Slade addressed the ongoing situation in Gaza, advocating for individuals to occupy a neutral middle ground to foster progress in the conflict.

The tour has been marked by controversy since Macklemore was removed from the lineup last month after making pro-Palestinian comments and performing his song Hind's Hall. Macklemore claimed that stadium owners pressured Sheeran to drop him, though Sheeran later clarified that the decision was not his own. The situation caused significant friction, as other supporting artists such as FINNEAS, Aaron Rowe, and Lukas Graham withdrew from the tour in solidarity with the rapper. Sheeran also lost his original backing band during this period but has since managed to secure replacements to continue his scheduled performances.

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Based on reporting by nu. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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