Kathy Griffin Criticizes Ed Sheeran Over Macklemore Tour Ban

Comedian Kathy Griffin expressed her disapproval of singer Ed Sheeran’s response to rapper Macklemore being removed from his tour. Griffin’s comments came during an interview with Queerty. She believes Sheeran should have opposed the decision made by billionaire Robert Kraft, owner of Gillette Stadium, to exclude Macklemore.

The controversy began when Macklemore was taken off Sheeran’s tour after advocating for a ‘Free Palestine’ during his performances. This stance included performing his song ‘Hind’s Hall,’ which is critical of Israel. Despite Sheeran claiming that promoters and venues made the decision, Griffin argued he had options and should have supported Macklemore.

“I wish that Ed Sheeran had not taken the advice of the ones who told him to fire Macklemore,” Griffin said. “Let’s not be listening to…Robert Kraft. When Robert Kraft says I’ve called all the other stadium owners and they’re not gonna let you do the show with Macklemore either, Ed Sheeran should’ve said go…yourself, I can go to Brazil and perform for 250,000 people. He had more options.”

Griffin also voiced her support for the ‘Free Palestine’ movement, suggesting that such views are protected under the First Amendment in the United States. While stating her criticisms of certain Israeli political figures, she maintained respect for both Israeli and Palestinian people.

In light of the cancellation, Macklemore announced a ‘Free Palestine Tour,’ with scheduled performances in Dublin, Paris, and London. Progressive figures have backed Macklemore’s actions, yet he has faced backlash from pro-Israel groups.

The Israeli-American Council (IAC) supported Kraft’s decision, labeling it a stand against what they view as antisemitic content promoted by Macklemore. In a statement, the IAC commended Kraft and other stadium owners for what they described as moral leadership.

“The Israeli-American Council (IAC) applauds Robert Kraft and his fellow stadium owners for their moral leadership in expelling rapper Macklemore from the concert stage…as a performer who traffics in antisemitism should not be given a stage,” their statement read.

The actions and statements around this incident highlight the ongoing tensions in the music industry over political expression and audience sensitivities.