Macklemore, Ed Sheeran urge Patriots owner to donate $2M for Palestinian aid

New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft announced on Wednesday that he has agreed to match a $2 million donation requested by pop star Ed Sheeran for aid in the Middle East. The request came after Macklemore, who had been removed from Sheeran’s tour for promoting “Free Palestine” messaging, urged Kraft to contribute to relief efforts in the region.

Kraft’s statement said that before Macklemore challenged the decision to drop him from the tour, Sheeran approached him with the donation proposal. He confirmed that the Patriots’ organization will provide an equal amount, bringing the total contribution to $4 million. The statement did not elaborate on the specific projects the funds would support, but it indicated the organization’s willingness to assist in humanitarian efforts.

The announcement follows a broader debate over artists’ political statements during live performances. While Macklemore’s removal sparked criticism from some fans, Kraft’s decision to match the donation underscores the Patriots’ commitment to philanthropy amid the controversy. No further comments were issued by either party at this time.