Jack Antonoff Slams Ed Sheeran's Response to Macklemore Controversy
The Hollywood Reporter • • entertainment
Key Points:
- Jack Antonoff criticized Ed Sheeran for his handling of the controversy surrounding Macklemore’s pro-Palestinian comments during Sheeran’s Loop Tour, urging Sheeran to take a stronger stand rather than placate wealthy promoters.
- Antonoff suggested Sheeran should have canceled the tour and played free shows outside venues to raise money, rejecting billionaire influence over artistic expression.
- The controversy began when Patriots owner Robert Kraft and other NFL owners threatened to block Sheeran’s performances if Macklemore remained on the tour, leading to Macklemore’s removal and subsequent solidarity departures by other opening acts.
- Sheeran addressed the situation by condemning violence in Israel and Gaza but maintained a stance of neutrality, which Macklemore criticized as typical and insufficiently political.
- Antonoff also condemned live music giant Live Nation for prioritizing profit over fans’ experience, criticizing their ticketing practices and the commercialization of live music.
