Police drafted in to 'protect Ed Sheeran' in first concert since Macklemore controversy
Police are to be called in to 'protect Ed Sheeran' as the musician returns to the stage for the first time since the recent controversy.
His Loop Tour has hit headlines in recent days, after Macklemore, who had been supporting Sheeran, announced that he’d been dropped from the remaining dates after he made an on-stage speech in which he stated ‘Free Palestine’.
The fallout from Macklemore’s removal sent the tour into chaos, after all of Sheeran’s support acts announced they’d be dropping out.
Irish singer Aaron Rowe was the first to announce he was quitting the tour, swiftly followed by Finneas, Beoga and Danish pop band Lukas Graham.
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In a statement, US rapper Macklemore said Sheeran had been left in a tough spot after Gillette Stadium owner Robert Kraft issued an ‘ultimatum’ about him performing there.
Sheeran meanwhile released his own statement, in which he said that the decision to boot Macklemore from the tour hadn’t been down to him and claimed it was the promoters who made the call.
The award-winning singer is now said to be preparing to perform his Philadelphia without any support and members of the backup band who are also reported to have dropped out.
The show time at the Lincoln Financial Field is now listed for a later start time of 8pm from the previous 5.30pm, according to Ticketmaster.
But the threat of potential protests on the streets outside the venue has prompted a large police operation to 'protect' the singer.
Pro-Palestinian protest group Shutdown DZ Philly called supporters to gather outside the stadium at 4:30pm, three and a half hours before the newly planned concert time.
In an Instagram post, the organisers said they were aware of the change but would still be gathering to raise awareness about the situation in Gaza.
"We are aware of the change to Ed Sheeran’s concert start time, and we will not be changing the start time of our rally," a statement read. "Our focus is bringing attention to Gaza and expanding our network of support in Philadelphia, 24/7. See you on the streets."
Philadelphia police said that staffing would be adjusted amid the planned demonstration. And police sources told CBS News that officers along with members of the Civil Affairs Division would be called to the concert to manage the situation.
Spokesperson for the Philadelphia Police Department, Jasmine Reilly, said in a statement: "Our officers are talking to his team to make sure all appropriate measures are taken' for protection and ensure Sheeran's safety."
The latest in the saga comes after it was reported that ticket sales for the tour had taken a tumble amid the ongoing controversy, with data revealing how the price of resale tickets has been steadily falling in recent days.
Topics: Ed Sheeran, Entertainment, Music
James Holt