Ed Sheeran will be joined by a ‘special guest’ at next show after all support acts dropped out over Macklemore saga

Key Points:

• Ed Sheeran’s U.S. tour in Atlanta will feature a “special guest” after all his original support acts withdrew due to the controversy surrounding Macklemore’s removal over his “Free Palestine” remarks.
• Support acts, including Aaron Rowe and Finneas, pulled out in solidarity with Macklemore, who was dropped from the tour following his pro-Palestine comments in New Jersey.
• Sheeran has faced backlash for his neutral stance on the Gaza conflict, with protests occurring at his concerts and public criticism over his apolitical image.
• The controversy has sparked wider industry responses, such as country musician Zach Bryan publicly supporting Palestine during a concert at the same venue that barred Macklemore.
• Macklemore has launched a “Free Palestine” tour with proceeds going to Palestinian support organizations, while Sheeran has apologized to fans and emphasized his desire for unity rather than political division in his shows.