Ed Sheeran Admits ‘Mistakes’ at First Show Since Macklemore Controversy

By Angel No Lie | KPD Online | September 22, 2026 | Entertainment News

British singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran delivered an emotional apology to fans during his first concert since the controversy surrounding rapper Macklemore‘s removal from the Loop Tour, admitting he had made “mistakes” while navigating one of the most turbulent weeks of his career.

Performing solo at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Sheeran opened the show with a heartfelt speech before launching into his set, acknowledging the difficult decisions made behind the scenes and expressing regret over disappointing fans.

“I’ve had to take and make difficult decisions, and I am making mistakes, and I’m so, so sorry,” Sheeran told the crowd.

Jun 03, 2023: Ed Sheeran / Khalid / DYLAN at Lincoln Financial Field Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States | Concert Archives

A Tour Thrown Into Turmoil

The controversy began earlier this month after Macklemore made pro-Palestinian remarks during his opening performance on Sheeran’s Loop Tour. According to Sheeran, several upcoming venues threatened to cancel scheduled concerts unless Macklemore was removed, leading promoter Messina Touring Group to make the decision to drop the rapper from the lineup.

Sheeran has maintained that the removal was not his personal decision, saying he attempted to mediate the situation while honoring commitments to fans and tour staff.

The fallout intensified when multiple supporting acts, including Finneas and Lukas Graham, withdrew from the tour in solidarity with Macklemore.

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Sheeran Speaks on Gaza

While reiterating that he never intended to become “an activist musician,” Sheeran said recent events compelled him to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

He condemned both the October 7, 2023 Hamas attacks in Israel and the ongoing suffering of civilians in Gaza, describing the situation there as “catastrophic,” “unjustifiable,” and “disproportionate.”

“This is a humanitarian issue, and I cannot hide how I feel about it anymore,” he said.

The singer also expressed concern about venues influencing artistic content, saying he was troubled by the idea that performances should require approval from venue owners.

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Fans Respond With Support

Despite widespread online criticism and calls for protests, more than 50,000 fans attended the Philadelphia concert, with many applauding Sheeran’s decision to continue performing.

During the show, Sheeran admitted he had been uncertain how audiences would react after days of intense public scrutiny but thanked concertgoers for showing up and keeping the concert a welcoming space for people with differing views.

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What Happens Next?

The Loop Tour is continuing with revised production arrangements after the departure of its supporting acts and members of Sheeran’s backing band. New musicians have joined the tour as Sheeran moves forward with upcoming North and South American dates.

The episode has sparked broader debate within the music industry over artistic freedom, corporate influence on live performances, and the challenges artists face when political issues intersect with entertainment.