Ed Sheeran’s scheduled performances at Gillette Stadium in Massachusetts have been called off due to severe weather alerts, adding to the challenges faced by the ongoing tour. The tour encountered controversy when opening act Macklemore was removed for making pro-Palestinian remarks on stage.
Earlier, Macklemore was removed from the U.S. leg of the tour after stadium owners, including billionaire Robert Kraft, threatened to cancel Sheeran’s shows if Macklemore remained in the lineup. This led to other openers withdrawing in solidarity with Macklemore’s departure.
The cancellation of Sheeran’s performances at Gillette Stadium this weekend is a result of anticipated severe weather conditions in Boston and across New England, with forecasts predicting strong winds in the vicinity of the stadium. The decision was made following consultations with local authorities, as confirmed by a statement from Messina Touring, Sheeran’s touring group.
Ticket refunds will be processed through the original point of purchase for all affected concert-goers. This development comes on the heels of Macklemore’s announcement of a new tour supporting Palestinian causes, criticizing the influence of the “billionaire class” in shaping the music industry.
Before being dropped from the tour, Macklemore had performed at two shows in New Jersey during the U.S. leg, where he expressed support for Palestinians. Kraft, a key figure in Macklemore’s removal, cited concerns over previous incidents of antisemitic rhetoric associated with the rapper.
In response to Macklemore’s removal and the ensuing backlash, Sheeran expressed his dismay over the situation but defended his decision not to take a public stand on the matter. The tour’s lineup changes have led to further repercussions, with other supporting acts and Sheeran’s backing band opting out of the tour.
Following the cancellation of the Massachusetts shows, fans seeking refunds due to the lineup alterations have been assured of reimbursement by the state’s attorney general. Ticketmaster has agreed to provide advance refunds for the affected shows, despite its usual policy of not offering refunds for changes in opening acts.
The tour’s controversies have sparked debates surrounding Sheeran’s stance on political issues, with some fans criticizing his perceived neutrality in the face of global conflicts. Despite the challenges, Sheeran remains committed to his music and his evolving approach to engaging with social issues.