Ed Sheeran's Opening Acts Quit in Solidarity with Macklemore

On September 16, 2026, all four of Ed Sheeran's opening acts announced their departure from the tour. The decision was made in solidarity with Macklemore, who had recently criticized the music industry's treatment of artists. The exact reasons for Macklemore's criticism were not detailed, but the move has been widely interpreted as a stand for artistic integrity. CNN and WION both reported the event, though they differed slightly in phrasing. CNN stated that the opening acts quit in solidarity with Macklemore, while WION added that the tour was in chaos and that Macklemore was 'dropped' from the lineup. The sources did not provide further clarification on the nature of Macklemore's criticism or the exact circumstances of his removal from the tour. The event has drawn attention to the dynamics within the music industry and the role of artist solidarity in shaping public and industry responses.