The singer’s Instagram count fell from 47.6 million to roughly 47.2 million, a loss Sheeran attributes to the controversy surrounding Macklemore’s dismissal from his tour.
Speaking onstage on Saturday, Sheeran said the episode has revealed who his true friends are, noting that many long‑time acquaintances have “backed away” while “50,000 people haven’t abandoned me.” He described the week as “weird” and emotional, adding that he feels compelled to continue the shows for the remaining supporters.
All of Sheeran’s opening acts quit in solidarity with Macklemore, and the pop star hired extra security ahead of the Philadelphia concert out of fear that audience members might throw objects at him onstage.
Macklemore was dropped after he shouted “Free Palestine” and performed his 2024 protest song “Hind’s Hall” at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey earlier in September. In an Instagram statement, the rapper claimed the decision was driven by pressure from stadium owners, specifically Robert Kraft of the Kraft Group, who allegedly gave an ultimatum that Macklemore could not perform at their venues if he remained on the tour.
Sheeran responded on Instagram, saying the removal was a “promoter’s decision” because his contract is with the promoter, not with him personally. He said he tried to “build a bridge” between the two sides but ultimately the issue boiled down to how Macklemore conveyed his message during the performance.
The fallout has also reached Sheeran’s family. His cousin Jethro Sheeran posted a scathing Instagram note calling the singer “selfish,” “malicious” and “cunning,” accusing him of crafting a “fake narrative” to protect brand deals and private gigs. Fans have begun demanding refunds for tickets purchased for shows that originally featured Macklemore.
Despite the turmoil, Sheeran’s tour will continue with scheduled shows on Friday and Saturday at Gillette Stadium, owned by Robert Kraft, where the dispute originated.