Macklemore Accuses Billionaire Robert Kraft of Blocking Him From Ed Sheeran Tour
The rapper alleges New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft pressured US venue operators to exclude him from Sheeran's tour, reigniting scrutiny of the businessman's pro-Israel activism.
Rapper Macklemore has accused Robert Kraft, the billionaire owner of the New England Patriots and a prominent pro-Israel advocate, of working to have him removed from participation in Ed Sheeran's United States tour, according to a report by Al Jazeera.
Macklemore claimed that Kraft rallied other venue owners against his involvement in the tour, though the specific circumstances of the alleged incident and any direct response from Kraft or his representatives were not detailed in available reporting.
Kraft, who made his fortune in the packaging industry before becoming a prominent figure in American sports as the longtime owner of the Patriots NFL franchise, has been an outspoken advocate for Israel and has founded organizations dedicated to combating antisemitism. His financial and political influence extends into various sectors, including sports venues and entertainment infrastructure across the United States.
Macklemore, known for hits such as "Thrift Shop" and "Same Love," has previously voiced support for Palestinian causes and has been vocal in his criticism of Israeli policy amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Al Jazeera's report did not include further details on when the alleged incident occurred, which specific venues may have been involved, or whether Ed Sheeran's team issued any statement regarding the claims.
Neither Kraft nor representatives for Ed Sheeran had publicly responded to Macklemore's allegations at the time of the report.
Sources
- Who is Robert Kraft, pro-Israel billionaire who cancelled Macklemore? — Al Jazeera — All
EGazette summarizes reporting from multiple sources; follow the links for the originals.
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