Popular children’s YouTube creator Ms Rachel, known off-screen as Rachel Griffin Accurso, has publicly criticized Ed Sheeran after the singer removed rapper Macklemore as a supporting act for the U.S. leg of his Mathematics Tour.
Macklemore Removed Following Pro-Palestine Remarks
The controversy began on September 4, when Macklemore opened for Sheeran at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. During his set, the rapper voiced support for Palestine on stage. Shortly after, reports emerged that several venues refused to host the scheduled concerts if Macklemore remained on the bill.
On September 15, Sheeran released a statement addressing the decision. He said he had “tried to build a bridge” over the previous week but was ultimately unable to resolve the situation. Sheeran emphasized that dropping Macklemore “was the promoter’s decision, it was not mine.” He added that while he does not make his personal views public, “it doesn’t mean I don’t care,” explaining that he wants to keep his performances non-political.
Ms Rachel Condemns Silence on Gaza
Ms Rachel responded with a series of social media posts condemning Sheeran’s stance. In her statement, she wrote:
“It’s not wrong to say Palestinian people should be able to be free, and Palestinian kids should be able to grow up.”
“It’s wrong to be silent during a genocide.”
She continued her advocacy in subsequent posts, stating:
“Imagine looking back 20 years from now at yourself kicking someone off a tour because they spoke out during a genocide that has killed over 20,000 kids.”
Accusations of Double Standards
Ms Rachel also highlighted what she described as a double standard in Sheeran’s approach to political statements. She noted that the singer previously performed a concert in support of Ukraine’s defense against Russia’s invasion but “considers Palestine too dangerous and political.”
“Ed Sheeran had an opportunity [to] show that we won’t be bullied into punishing people for supporting Palestine,” she wrote.
“Instead he caved to people who refuse to accept what the world knows. A genocide is happening in Gaza. We all need to speak out against it.”
Second Support Act Withdraws in Protest
The fallout expanded when Irish performer Aaron Rowe, another support act on the tour, announced he was quitting. Rowe, who credited Sheeran as a friend who “changed my life,” said he could not continue under the circumstances.
“But as Irish people we know all too well about genocide, forced famine and violent occupation. “
“I cannot stand by and allow billionaires to use their position of power to silence the rightful voices of those who speak up against Israeli genocide and who highlight the savage murder of children.”
“I would lose all respect for myself to carry on as normal.”
Tour Continues Amid Lineup Changes
Sheeran’s tour is scheduled to proceed as planned, with the next date set for September 19 in Philadelphia. The singer will now need to fill multiple openings on his supporting lineup following the departures of both Macklemore and Rowe.
LADbible Group has contacted Ed Sheeran’s representatives for comment.
