Storm Cancels Ed Sheeran’s Gillette Stadium Shows After Tour Controversy
Ed Sheeran’s weekend concerts at Gillette Stadium were canceled because a powerful storm was expected to hit the East Coast. The decision followed a controversy in which Macklemore was removed from the tour after NFL owners, including Robert Kraft, objected to his criticism of Israel. Sheeran faced criticism for the removal and stated that the promoter had made the call.
The weekend shows at Gillette Stadium were called off Friday morning as a nor’easter was forecast to strike the East Coast. A representative for Robert Kraft said the tour chose cancellation to protect attendees and workers, with refunds available where tickets were bought.
The cancellation follows Macklemore’s removal from Sheeran’s U.S. Loop Tour after NFL owners, including Kraft, opposed Macklemore’s criticism of Israel. Sheeran said the promoter made that decision, not him, while Macklemore said Kraft and other venue owners threatened to block Sheeran if Macklemore remained. Macklemore later announced a “Free Palestine” tour with stops in Dublin, Paris, and London.
The cancellation may affect ticketholders, stadium workers, and local businesses expecting concert traffic. It could also intensify debate over whether artists and venues should face pressure over political speech, potentially influencing how promoters structure tours and how performers address contentious issues. Fans may reassess loyalty to Sheeran, while advocacy groups and opposing audiences may see the episode as a test of corporate and celebrity neutrality. The long-term impact remains uncertain.