NEW YORK — Rapper Macklemore has been removed from the remaining U.S. dates of Ed Sheeran’s Loop tour after venue objections tied to onstage remarks at MetLife Stadium, with New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft confirming Gillette Stadium would not host the opener.
Macklemore said Sheeran’s team told him stadium owners presented an ultimatum. Tour promoters said upcoming venues notified them they would not allow shows with Macklemore on the bill. Sheeran later said the promoter, not he personally, held the relevant contract decision while stressing fans and crew already booked on the run.
How the Dispute Escalated
The controversy followed Macklemore’s comments and performance material during September shows in New Jersey. Kraft’s stadium statement cited a commitment to a welcoming environment and said the material crossed a line for Gillette’s standards. Other stakeholders disputed how broadly any “ultimatum” applied beyond individual venue decisions.
Tour Impact
Remaining U.S. stadium dates will continue with other support acts. Promoters framed the change as necessary to keep the tour intact for ticket holders and production staff.
Why It Matters
The episode highlights how stadium owners, promoters, and artists share risk when political speech collides with large commercial tours. It does not resolve broader debates about speech onstage; it does change who appears on this particular itinerary.
Updates
Factual roundup of public statements from the artist, venue owner, and promoter as of September 15, 2026.
