Ed Sheeran addresses Macklemore controversy at Philadelphia show

What happened

Key facts

• The mega-star singer held his first concert since rapper Macklemore was removed from his tour and other artists dropped out.
• Reported by BBC News and published Sun, 20 Sep 2026 00:53:55 UTC.

Why it matters

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What to watch next

• Official statements or denials from the governments named
• Whether other major newsrooms confirm the same details
• Any follow-up decision, vote or deadline tied to the event

Coverage timeline

When each newsroom published on this story, oldest first — all times UTC.

1. 00:14 UTC · The Hindu

   Ed Sheeran set to return to stage after Palestinian controversy

2. 00:53 UTC · BBC News

   Ed Sheeran addresses Macklemore controversy at Philadelphia show

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Ed Sheeran set to return to stage after Palestinian controversy

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Ed Sheeran Met With Pro-Palestine Protest Outside Philadelphia Concert: “F*ck Your Concert, F*ck Your Fans. Palestine Is Our Demand!”

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Melissa Barrera Says It’s “Beautiful” to See Macklemore Receive Support After Ed Sheeran Tour Firing: “I Didn’t Get That When It Happened to Me”

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Melissa Barrera Says Support for Macklemore After He Was Dropped from Ed Sheeran’s Tour Is ‘Beautiful’ and ‘I Didn’t Get That’ After Being Fired From ‘Scream’

Melissa Barrera, who was fired from the “Scream” franchise due to social media posts criticizing Israel amid the war in Gaza in 2023, is voicing her respect for the musicians who have dropped out of Ed Sheeran’s tour following Macklemore’s dismissal…

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