Ed Sheeran addresses comments from estranged cousin following Macklemore tour incident

Ed Sheeran discussed his estranged cousin, Jethro Sheeran, and Jethro's remarks about him during a concert at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on October 1, 2026. Ed stated he had not spoken to Jethro in a long time and did not mention him by name. Jethro has criticized Ed following the removal of Macklemore from Ed's Loop Tour after Macklemore made a 'Free Palestine' statement during a concert. Jethro described Ed as 'selfish' and 'malicious' in an Instagram post, expressing shame over Ed's actions and questioning his character and music. Jethro has also spoken out against Ed in interviews, including one with journalist Don Lemon on September 25. The controversy began when Macklemore was dropped from the tour after his comments regarding Palestine, which he clarified in an Instagram statement, emphasizing that neither he nor Ed were victims in the situation. Ed later responded, stating that the decision to drop Macklemore was made by the promoter and that he would not abandon his fans or crew. He also expressed feelings of abandonment by family and friends during a concert in Philadelphia on September 19. Macklemore is set to launch his 'Free Palestine Tour' in October, with proceeds going to organizations supporting the Palestinian cause.