Michael Rapaport criticizes Macklemore for pro-Palestinian performance at Ed Sheeran concert

<p>Michael Rapaport criticized Macklemore after the rapper expressed his pro-Palestinian views during Ed Sheeran’s concert at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on September 6 and 7, 2026.</p><p>Macklemore, 43, called for "Free Palestine" and performed his song "Hind's Hall" while opening for Sheeran, 35. Rapaport, 56, who is Jewish and has been vocal in his support for Israel since Hamas' October 7 attack, referred to Macklemore as a "clown" in a post on social media platform X.</p><p>In his post, Rapaport stated, "Imagine going to see Ed Sheeran & this absolute no talent none singer non rapping non dancing clown Macklemore is opening & because he actually has no act or specific skill set he’s jumping around like dkc carrying on about a genocide that never happened in Gaza." He also questioned Sheeran's choice of opening act.</p><p>Rapaport reposted an article discussing the backlash against Macklemore's political messaging and stated, "Calling this dude a ‘Rapper' is disrespectful to any actual ‘Rapper.’" In a video from the concert, Macklemore was seen chanting "Say free, free Palestine!" while wearing a keffiyeh.</p><p>Macklemore expressed his intent to advocate for Palestine during his performances, stating, "A big part of the reason why I wanted to do this tour in the first place is so I could stand up in stadiums like this and say two words that are very near and dear to my heart: Free Palestine." He emphasized the importance of safety and peace for all children, including his own daughter.</p><p>During his performance, Macklemore's song "Hind's Hall" was accompanied by visuals related to pro-Palestinian protests and the ongoing conflict. The song's title refers to Hamilton Hall at Columbia University, which was occupied by pro-Palestinian students in April 2024.</p><p>Some audience members supported Macklemore's message, while others expressed disappointment, stating they did not expect political commentary at a concert. One concertgoer mentioned leaving during Macklemore’s performance, while another attendee stated they felt embarrassed by the political nature of the set.</p><p>In response to the backlash, the Israeli-American Council launched a petition calling for Macklemore to be removed from Sheeran’s remaining tour dates, arguing that the concert should not serve as a platform for political agendas.</p><p>Macklemore has been an outspoken advocate for Palestinian rights since the onset of the Israel-Hamas war. He previously spoke at a pro-Palestinian rally in Washington, D.C., in November 2023, where he described the situation as a genocide.</p><p>Israel has faced accusations of committing genocide during the conflict in Gaza, a claim it denies, stating that its military actions are directed at Hamas and that it takes measures to protect civilians.</p>