Sheeran Philadelphia Concert to Proceed Without Openers

Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour has been reshaped after promoter Messina Touring Group and venues removed Macklemore from the remaining U.S. dates following his pro-Palestinian remarks and “Free Palestine” chants during a New Jersey performance. Sheeran said he was not responsible for the decision, which he attributed to pressure from stadium owners including New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft. The remaining support acts, including Finneas, Lukas Graham and Aaron Rowe, withdrew, though Rowe later defended Sheeran and said criticism should focus on Kraft and others involved. Sheeran’s Philadelphia concert at Lincoln Financial Field is scheduled to proceed without opening acts, with the start time moved from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.; tickets remain available. Pro-Palestinian groups plan to protest outside the stadium, prompting increased police security. Kraft has said he would donate $2 million to aid the region at Sheeran’s request, while Macklemore and other artists maintain that performers should not be silenced for advocating for Palestinians.