Robert Kraft cancels Macklemore over Israel remarks

New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft confirmed he pressured Ed Sheeran to drop rapper Macklemore as the opening act for a US tour date at Kraft's Gillette Stadium, saying the rapper's recent performances, including a speech about Palestine at Sheeran's MetLife Stadium show earlier this month, were part of a "broader history of antisemitic rhetoric and imagery" and letting him perform would cross a line. Sheeran has denied personal involvement, saying the decision was made by the venue and promoter.

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As it ran

17 September 2026

• Robert Kraft says Ed Sheeran asked him to donate $2m to aid after Macklemore backlash BBC News
• Robert Kraft says Ed Sheeran asked him to donate $2m in aid after Macklemore backlash BBC News

16 September 2026

• Patriots owner Robert Kraft's Macklemore decision draws fury from AOC, CAIR Fox News
• NFL owner's decision to ban Macklemore draws fury from AOC, Muslim advocacy group Fox News
• Macklemore ban outrages AOC, advocacy group Fox News

15 September 2026

• Who is Robert Kraft, pro-Israel billionaire who cancelled Macklemore? Al Jazeera