Ed Sheeran cancels Gillette Stadium concerts as nor’easter disrupts schedule according to tour promoter
Ed Sheeran’s highly anticipated concerts scheduled for this weekend at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, have been officially canceled, amid predictions of severe weather and ongoing controversy related to his tour. As a major nor’easter is expected to batter the region, with wind gusts projected to reach between 40 and 55 mph, the safety of attendees has been prioritized in the decision to cancel the performances.
The announcement was made by Messina Touring, the tour promoter, which stated that it undertook consultations with local authorities before arriving at the difficult conclusion to cancel the two shows set for Friday and Saturday evenings at 8 p.m. The promoter underscored its commitment to ensuring the safety of fans, staff, and all individuals involved.
The adverse weather conditions did not go unnoticed, as local media captured footage of crews dismantling the concert stage early on Friday morning. This move indicates the growing urgency as the potential for damaging winds looms in the vicinity.
Adding to the complexity of the event, rapper Macklemore, who was slated to open Sheeran’s shows, was removed from the tour following comments he made at a recent concert. Macklemore had publicly voiced support for Palestine, leading to his exclusion amidst accusations of antisemitism that have been previously attributed to him. This decision sparked further debate, particularly considering that other supporting acts have since withdrawn in solidarity with Macklemore’s stance.
It is worth noting that Robert Kraft, the owner of the New England Patriots, also owns Gillette Stadium. Kraft reportedly expressed his discontent with Macklemore’s past comments, deeming them problematic for the concert lineup. Sheeran himself expressed an intention to keep his performances devoid of political undertones, despite acknowledging the grim humanitarian situation in Gaza during a recent show in Philadelphia.
Before the cancellation, ticket sales had been sluggish, and the situation had escalated to the point where Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell intervened, prompting Ticketmaster to offer refunds. Concertgoers are advised to seek refunds through their point of purchase, with Ticketmaster asserting that those who bought tickets through its platform will be automatically reimbursed.
Sheeran’s tour will continue, with his next scheduled performance taking place in Atlanta on October 3rd.
#entertainment #politics
