Macklemore Controversy: Greta Thunberg Reacts, Urges Sustained Pressure on Influential Figures
London— Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg has weighed in on the controversy surrounding rapper Macklemore’s departure from Ed Sheeran’s U.S. tour, saying pressure on influential figures should be sustained as the war in Gaza intensifies. Macklemore was dropped from the remaining U.S. dates of Sheeran’s “Loop Tour” after making statements in support of Palestinians during…
London— Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg has weighed in on the controversy surrounding rapper Macklemore’s departure from Ed Sheeran’s U.S. tour, saying pressure on influential figures should be sustained as the war in Gaza intensifies. Macklemore was dropped from the remaining U.S. dates of Sheeran’s “Loop Tour” after making statements in support of Palestinians during a performance at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey earlier this month.
In a social media statement, Thunberg said the focus shouldn’t stay on the two musicians alone but on those affected on the ground and on holding those responsible accountable. Sheeran later clarified the decision was made by the tour’s promoter and venues, not by him personally. Several artists on the tour — including Fin Neath, Lukas Graham and Aaron Rowe — withdrew from upcoming shows in solidarity with Macklemore. Sheeran subsequently called the situation in Gaza “devastating and unjustifiable” during a September 19 concert in Philadelphia. Macklemore has said he plans to donate $1 million from his tour earnings to Palestinian relief efforts.
