Robert Kraft Drops Rapper Macklemore from Gillette Stadium Concerts Over Antisemitism
New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft dropped rapper Macklemore from upcoming Ed Sheeran concerts at Gillette Stadium, citing antisemitic rhetoric and inflammatory anti-Israel statements.
Robert Kraft, owner of the New England Patriots and Gillette Stadium, has decided to drop the rapper Macklemore from the lineup of upcoming Ed Sheeran concerts at the venue later this month. Kraft stated that the stadium is committed to providing a welcoming environment and ensuring that events do not provide a platform for hate speech.
Kraft Cites Antisemitic Rhetoric
"Based on Macklemore's recent actions, the material presented from the stage during Ed Sheeran's concerts in New Jersey, and a broader history of antisemitic rhetoric and imagery that we believe were deeply offensive and painful to the Jewish community, we decided that his participation in the September 25 and 26 shows at Gillette Stadium crosses that line," Kraft said in a statement.
During performances at MetLife Stadium on September 4 and 5, Macklemore expressed extreme pro-Palestinian views regarding the war in Gaza. He called for freedom for Palestinians and performed a song describing Israel's actions as "genocide." Macklemore, 43, announced on social media that Sheeran informed him Kraft would not allow him to perform at Gillette Stadium.
Response and Ongoing Dialogue
Macklemore previously stated that his criticism is not directed at Jewish people, emphasizing a message of peace and love. Kraft, who established an anti-hate foundation in 2019, noted that supporting the Palestinian people and opposing Hamas, antisemitism, and hatred should not contradict one another.
"The pain and loss of innocent Palestinians are real, but activism on their behalf should not come at the expense of the Jewish community or blur the responsibility of Hamas," Kraft said.
Production company Messina Touring Group confirmed it was notified by several venues that they would not allow performances featuring Macklemore, impacting the tour schedule.
