Ed Sheeran Cancels Massachusetts Concerts Due to Severe Weather Warnings

British pop star Ed Sheeran was forced to cancel two weekend concerts scheduled at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, due to severe weather warnings. The cancellations were announced Friday by "Loop" tour production company Messina Touring. A powerful storm is expected to hit the U.S. East Coast with strong winds, heavy rain, and flooding, prompting producers to call off the shows after consulting with local authorities. The production company emphasized that the decision prioritized the safety of fans, crew, and all involved, and ticket holders will receive refunds.

This cancellation adds to the tour's recent troubles. The tour faced a crisis after former opening act, rapper Macklemore, was dropped following criticism from Jewish organizations for anti-Israel and pro-Palestinian statements made during shows in New Jersey. In solidarity with Macklemore, other opening acts, including Grammy winner Finneas and the folk band Beoga, withdrew from the tour.

Sheeran had previously confirmed discussions with stadium owner, Jewish billionaire Robert Kraft, who expressed concern over the continued collaboration, though Sheeran denied direct involvement in Macklemore's removal. Meanwhile, Macklemore announced a separate "Free Palestine" tour set to launch in late October in London, Paris, and Dublin. He stated that artists who have shown solidarity with Palestinians would join him, and all proceeds would go to Palestinian aid organizations. This follows his earlier declaration to donate his entire $1 million earnings from shows with Sheeran to pro-Palestinian causes. Sheeran is expected to resume his tour in Atlanta in early October.