Kathy Griffin Criticizes Ed Sheeran Over Macklemore’s Concert Ban

Kathy Griffin expressed disapproval of Ed Sheeran’s response to Macklemore being barred from performing at Gillette Stadium. She stated Ed Sheeran should have challenged stadium owner Robert Kraft’s decision instead of following suit.

During an interview with Queerty, Griffin reacted to the removal of Macklemore from Sheeran’s tour earlier this month. This decision was made after Macklemore advocated for ‘Free Palestine’ during his performance and sang an anti-Israel song titled ‘Hind’s Hall.’ Kraft’s decision to bar Macklemore from performing led to his exclusion from Sheeran’s tour.

Griffin commented, ‘I wish Ed Sheeran had not taken advice to fire Macklemore. Let’s not be listening to Robert Kraft. When Kraft called other stadium owners and said they wouldn’t allow Macklemore either, Ed should’ve said go elsewhere. He had more options.’ She mentioned Macklemore’s comments as protected under the First Amendment and shared support for ‘Free Palestine.’

Macklemore announced his plan to start a ‘Free Palestine Tour’ in response to being removed from Ed Sheeran’s tour. He scheduled shows for Dublin, Paris, and London later this month.

While Macklemore gained support from progressive figures, he faced criticism from pro-Israel organizations. The Israeli-American Council (IAC) issued a statement backing Kraft’s action against Macklemore’s performance. The statement acknowledged Kraft’s leadership as he opposed antisemitism expressed in Macklemore’s performances.

The IAC stated, ‘Kraft’s leadership sets a standard: performers should not be allowed a platform to propagate antisemitism. Macklemore will no longer subject audiences to his harmful rants. We thank Kraft for setting a strong example.’