Ed Sheeran faces potential cancellations for his two upcoming concerts at Robert Kraft’s Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, as a massive nor’easter storm bears down on New England. Production crews paused stage construction Thursday evening while venue leadership weighs whether to dismantle the partially built open-air setup ahead of heavy winds and rain expected to start Friday night.
Weather Threat Forces Stage Suspension at Gillette Stadium
Production sources confirm that stage assembly for the Friday and Saturday night shows was halted Thursday afternoon as severe weather forecasts materialized. Crews spent Thursday night testing lighting systems just in case the Friday performance moves forward, but no final decision has been issued regarding cancellation or rescheduling. Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell reported that nearly 200 ticket holders have lodged complaints regarding Ticketmaster refund denials for these specific tour stops, though those inquiries stemmed from fan backlash over the dismissal of supporting act Macklemore rather than weather concerns.
The Macklemore Dispute and Venue Pressure
The weather disruption coincides with intense controversy surrounding the removal of rapper Macklemore from the tour lineup. Macklemore stated that New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft contacted venue owners and issued ultimatums after the rapper chanted “Free Palestine” and displayed Gaza-related imagery during Sheeran’s New Jersey shows at MetLife Stadium. Kraft released a statement via Page Six confirming the decision, citing a “broader history of antisemitic rhetoric and imagery that we believe has been deeply offensive and hurtful to the Jewish community.” Sheeran later released a statement clarifying that removing Macklemore was the promoter’s decision rather than his own, noting that he spoke directly with Kraft and various activists in an unsuccessful attempt to bridge the divide.
Protests and Solo Tour Dynamics
The Massachusetts Peace Action, an advocacy group focused on ending the Israel-Palestine conflict, had planned protests outside Gillette Stadium for the second night of Sheeran’s run. During his recent concert in Philadelphia—his first tour stop following Kraft’s pressure to drop the rapper—Sheeran performed entirely solo with his guitar after his backing band and other support acts pulled out in solidarity with Macklemore. Sheeran stated that he chose to continue the tour to support touring employees, musicians, and fans who had already made plans to attend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Ed Sheeran’s Gillette Stadium concerts officially canceled?
No final call has been made by venue operators, though production crews paused stage construction on Thursday due to the approaching nor’easter storm.
Why was Macklemore removed from the tour?
Promoters and venue owners, including Gillette Stadium owner Robert Kraft, decided to remove Macklemore following his “Free Palestine” chants and stage imagery during shows at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Did Ed Sheeran decide to drop Macklemore?
No. Sheeran stated that removing Macklemore was a decision made by promoters and venues, and that he personally held discussions with Kraft and activists to try to find a resolution.
How can ticket holders get refunds?
Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell intervened after receiving nearly 200 complaints regarding Ticketmaster denying refund requests related to the lineup controversy.
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