Rapper Macklemore was removed from Ed Sheeran's tour after delivering pro-Palestine speeches at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on 4–5 September, sparking controversy over the decision. The situation has escalated following the resurfacing of 2014 photographs showing Macklemore wearing a costume featuring stereotypical Jewish imagery, which critics argue undermines his political activism and raises questions about the sincerity of his stance.

Macklemore claimed that billionaire stadium owner Robert Kraft pressured Sheeran to remove him by threatening to cancel the entire tour, whilst Sheeran stated he maintains political neutrality. The resurfaced costume images, which Macklemore previously apologised for, have prompted responses from various figures including Israeli activist Hen Mazzig and Irish-Jewish activist Rachel Moiselle, who questioned the standards applied to antisemitism compared to other forms of discrimination. Climate activist Greta Thunberg has publicly supported Sheeran's decision, characterising it as a sign of shifting global consciousness, whilst Irish radio station Classic Hits Radio announced it would cease playing Sheeran's music due to listener feedback.