Ed Sheeran returns to stage after acts withdraw over Palestine row

…also raised objections. Reuters reported that the tour promoter, Messina Touring Group, said venue owners had refused to host shows with Macklemore on the bill. Sheeran subsequently addressed the controversy, saying the decision to remove Macklemore had been made by the promoter and venues rather than him. He said he had been involved in discussions with promoters and venues in an attempt to find a resolution, but that the decision was ultimately final. He also said he had personal views on the conflict but had chosen…

…had chosen not to discuss them publicly. Finneas, who was due to support Sheeran on six South American dates in November, announced that he was withdrawing from the tour. In a statement shared on social media, he said artists should not be silenced when speaking about people they believe are oppressed and said he stood with Palestine and its people. Irish singer Aaron Rowe also pulled out of the remaining North American dates. He said the decision was difficult because of his relationship with Sheeran, but that he could not continue with the tour amid the…