Robert Kraft says Ed Sheeran asked him to donate $2m in aid after Macklemore backlash
Also reported by The Hill
Summary
Robert Kraft, owner of Gillette Stadium, had rapper Macklemore removed as Ed Sheeran’s opening act, citing hate speech concerns. After Macklemore offered to donate $1 million to Palestinian groups, Sheeran asked Kraft to donate $2 million to aid efforts in the region. Several other support acts quit the tour in support of Macklemore, raising issues about free speech.Key Facts
- Robert Kraft owns Gillette Stadium and had Macklemore removed as an opening act for Ed Sheeran’s US tour.
- Kraft accused Macklemore of hate speech and a history of antisemitic statements, which Macklemore denies.
- Macklemore showed support for Palestine and expressed pro-Palestinian views during Sheeran’s concerts.
- Macklemore pledged to donate $1 million to six Palestinian organizations from his tour earnings.
- Ed Sheeran said the decision to drop Macklemore was made by promoters, not him.
- Sheeran asked Kraft to donate $2 million to help aid efforts in the region, matching Macklemore’s donation.
- Other support acts for Sheeran’s tour quit in solidarity with Macklemore, citing free speech concerns.
- Kraft stated he has supported initiatives to create business opportunities for Palestinians and Israelis and promotes protecting all lives.
