Rosie O'Donnell has criticised musician Ed Sheeran on an Irish television programme, accusing him of making a "very bad mistake" by siding with Robert Kraft, the billionaire owner of the New England Patriots, and of supporting genocide. Her comments came after Macklemore was removed from Sheeran's U.S. tour following the rapper's pro-Palestinian performances and statements, which Kraft allegedly pressured Sheeran to distance himself from. O'Donnell argued that Sheeran should have supported those advocating for Palestinian human rights rather than aligning himself with wealthy elites.

The incident reflects broader tensions about celebrity political expression in the entertainment industry. Industry commentators have noted that celebrities face significant pressure regarding their positions on the Israel-Palestinian conflict, with some suggesting there is an expectation to adopt particular viewpoints within their circles. Critics of O'Donnell's comments, including conservative media figures, have disputed her claims, noting that Kraft has property rights to determine who performs at his venues, and have characterised her rhetoric as irresponsible given rising political tensions.