Jack Antonoff criticizes Ed Sheeran over Macklemore tour removal decision

Musician and producer Jack Antonoff criticized singer Ed Sheeran for removing rapper Macklemore from his Loop Tour. Rolling Stone and Billboard reported that Antonoff made the comments during an interview published by The Guardian on October 25, 2026. Billboard reported that stadium owners, led by billionaire Robert Kraft, pressured Sheeran to drop the opener following Macklemore's pro-Palestine statements. [1][2][3]

Rolling Stone reported that Antonoff stated Sheeran missed an opportunity and should have canceled the entire tour instead of listening to a billionaire. Antonoff suggested Sheeran could have performed for free outside venues and raised money. Billboard added that Antonoff stated he is not afraid to say "Free Palestine" and believed Sheeran should not be afraid either. [1][2]

Macklemore is an American rapper from Seattle, Washington, who released his early work independently before gaining international success alongside producer Ryan Lewis. Sheeran removed the rapper from the concert lineup in September 2026 following backlash over his comments on the Israel-Gaza war. [1][6]

In the same interview with The Guardian, Billboard reported that Antonoff discussed performing songs written about his ex-partner Margaret Qualley following their split. Antonoff, who fronts the band Bleachers and co-produced Lorde's 2017 album Melodrama for Lava and Republic Records, stated it has been beautiful to continue singing those tracks for fans. [3][4]