Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour is already one of the biggest tours of the year, and now it’s the center of a controversy that stretches from the stage all the way to his family tree. His first cousin, musician Jethro Sheeran (known as Alonestar), publicly blasted him on Instagram, calling him a coward and a bad human and saying he’s ashamed of him.
The fallout traces back to Macklemore, who was opening the tour until he chanted“Free Palestine”and performed his protest song“Hind’s Hall”during MetLife Stadium shows. Macklemore was removed from the remaining eight fall dates, reportedly after pressure from the venues, and the other opening acts reportedly exited in solidarity. Ed addressed the situation at his September 19 Philadelphia concert, apologizing to the crowd and telling them he’s making mistakes and is still learning.
Jethro’s post added a personal layer to an already heated debate, claiming Ed mocked his mental health and harmed him professionally and financially. Between the tour fallout and the family blowup, this story has plenty more chapters coming.
Do you think Ed handled the situation the right way, or should he have stood by Macklemore? Sound off in the comments.
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Local Lawton
Local Lawton is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.