Comedian Kathy Griffin criticized singer Ed Sheeran for not supporting artist Macklemore after being barred from performing at Gillette Stadium, which is owned by billionaire Robert Kraft. Griffin’s comments were made in an interview with Queerty, where she expressed her views on the controversy surrounding Macklemore’s support for “Free Palestine.”
Macklemore was removed from the remainder of Sheeran’s tour after advocating for “Free Palestine” during his performances and singing his anti-Israel song “Hind’s Hall.” The decision followed Kraft’s ban on Macklemore performing at Gillette Stadium. Although Sheeran claimed that the concert promoter and venues were responsible for the final decision, Griffin believed Sheeran should have defended Macklemore.
I wish that Ed Sheeran had not taken the advice of the ones who told him to fire Macklemore. Let’s not be listening to Robert Kraft. When Kraft said I’ve called all the other stadium owners and they’re not gonna let you do the show with Macklemore either, Sheeran should’ve said go f— yourself, I can go to Brazil and perform for 250,000 people. He had more options.
Griffin argued that Macklemore’s stance is protected under the First Amendment and mentioned her own support for a “Free Palestine.”
Griffin stated, “I don’t think ‘Free Palestine’ is such a controversial thing to say because that’s a genuine genocide that is happening there, in my opinion. I don’t want Israel to be eradicated. I love the Israeli people as I hope the rest of the world likes the American people but hates President Donald Trump and his cabinet.” She emphasized that her issue was with political leaders, not the Jewish or Palestinian people, and expressed her belief that Palestine should be a separate country.
Macklemore, after being removed from Sheeran’s tour, announced plans for his own “Free Palestine Tour,” with shows scheduled in Dublin, Paris, and London. Progressive figures have shown support for Macklemore’s political actions. However, he has also faced backlash from pro-Israel groups accusing him of promoting antisemitism.
The Israeli-American Council (IAC) backed Robert Kraft’s actions, praising him for his “moral leadership” in expelling Macklemore. Their statement read, “The IAC applauds Kraft and fellow stadium owners for their leadership in not allowing Macklemore to promote antisemitism.” Kraft’s actions were seen as setting an example in opposing antisemitic performers.
Kraft and Sheeran’s representatives were contacted for comments. Emily Trainham from Fox News contributed to this report.