Rapper Macklemore has announced a $1 million donation from his earnings on Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour to six organizations supporting Palestinians, challenging New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft to match the contribution. The move escalates a public dispute that began when Macklemore was removed from the tour amid allegations that Kraft pressured Sheeran to drop the artist.
Macklemore Announces $1 Million Donation and Challenges Robert Kraft
In an Instagram post, Macklemore stated he would donate his tour earnings to Palestine Children’s Relief Fund, HEAL Palestine, Gaza Soup Kitchen, Medical Aid for Palestinians, UNRWA USA National Committee, and Anera. He framed the donation as an effort to refocus attention on the humanitarian situation.
“I invite Robert Kraft to match my donation. Whatever we disagree about, perhaps we can agree on this: Palestinian lives are worth protecting.”
“A Palestinian life is no less valuable than any other life on this earth. That is what this has always been about. Not me. Not a tour. Not the headlines or the controversy. It is about Palestinians’ right to freedom, dignity and safety in their own homeland.”
Robert Kraft Responds with $2 Million Pledge
Shortly after the challenge, Kraft announced he would commit $2 million, stating the decision came after a conversation with Ed Sheeran earlier in the day—before Macklemore’s public call to action.
“Earlier today, before Macklemore challenged me to match his donation, Ed called me and asked me to commit $2 million to match his donation to aid in the region to fight this humanitarian crisis.”
“Ed now plans to reach out to other venue owners and our goal is to continue to work together to build bridges.”
Kraft also emphasized his long-term involvement in Israeli-Palestinian coexistence initiatives.
“In addition, I’d like the people who are speaking in support of the Palestinian people to know that for decades, I have supported efforts that create opportunity for Palestinians and have brought young Palestinians and Israelis together to build businesses, create jobs, and forge relationships.”
Supporting Acts Exit Sheeran’s Tour in Protest
The donations arrive as Sheeran’s North American tour faces a wave of withdrawals from supporting artists. Irish singer Aaron Rowe announced his departure on September 15, followed quickly by Finneas, who stated he “stands with Palestine and its people.” Irish band Beoga and Danish group Lukas Graham also confirmed they would no longer participate.
Ed Sheeran Denies Role in Macklemore’s Removal
Amid the controversy, Sheeran issued a statement clarifying that the decision to remove Macklemore was not his own.
“Macklemore coming off tour was the promoter’s decision, it was not mine. Macklemore’s contract for the tour was with the promoter, not me.”
The situation continues to develop as artists, promoters, and public figures navigate the intersection of entertainment, philanthropy, and political advocacy.
