Singer Ed Sheeran is reportedly devastated by the backlash he has faced following his support act Macklemore’s pro-Palestinian speeches during concerts in the United States. Sources close to the artist claim he feels abandoned by friends and family, and is struggling to cope with the intense public scrutiny.

Sheeran, who recently relocated his family to Nashville, Tennessee, to balance his demanding touring schedule with family life, was visibly emotional during a recent Philadelphia concert. He shared with the audience that he felt let down by those around him after failing to publicly support Macklemore’s on-stage political statements.

“I’m feeling all of my friends and family and people I know abandoned me,” Sheeran told the crowd, adding that he had made “mistakes” in handling the situation and was uncertain if the tour would continue.

Family as a Sanctuary Amidst Turmoil

The decision to move his wife, Cherry Seaborn, and their two young daughters, Lyra (six) and Jupiter (four), to the US was intended to keep the family together during his extensive North American tour. Friends say this move has become an invaluable source of comfort for Sheeran amidst the current crisis.

“Ed had no idea this would happen, but what a relief they are in the States because right now Cherry and the girls are the only things that put a smile on his face,” a source close to the singer revealed. “It is his sanctuary and has been so much more valuable than either of them could ever have expected.”

The Philadelphia performance was described as the most challenging of his career, with the thought of his family waiting for him in Nashville serving as his primary motivation to continue.

The Genesis of the Controversy

The controversy began when billionaire businessman Robert Kraft, a personal friend of Sheeran’s, banned Macklemore from performing at his Gillette Stadium in Massachusetts. Kraft, who is Jewish, accused the rapper of hate speech for his on-stage calls for “Free Palestine” and other related comments and imagery concerning Gaza. Macklemore had performed a song dedicated to pro-Palestinian protesters, referring to “genocide” in Gaza, a description Israel disputes. He also clarified that his criticism was not directed at “my Jewish brothers and sisters.”

Macklemore’s removal from the tour led to further protests, with other artists who were part of Sheeran’s tour lineup withdrawing in solidarity.

Criticism from Celebrities and Family

The situation escalated as other public figures voiced their opinions. TV chef Nadiya Hussain shared a video on Instagram accusing Sheeran of playing the victim and shedding “white tears.” Similarly, Welsh singer Charlotte Church criticized Sheeran at a concert, suggesting he prioritized financial gain over taking a moral stance on the issue.

“Whilst he has made millions and has an enormous following, he has an enormous platform to do real good in the world. He chose consumerism and capitalism over doing the right thing,” Church stated, challenging Sheeran’s stance on musicians engaging in politics.

Sheeran’s friends have reportedly dismissed these criticisms, with one commenting on Hussain’s involvement and another suggesting Church was simply “cross.”

Adding to Sheeran’s distress, his estranged cousin, rapper Jethro (known online as Alonestar), publicly called him a “coward” and expressed shame. Sources indicate that Sheeran may have been referring to Jethro when he spoke of being abandoned by family during his on-stage emotional breakdown. This cousin has reportedly been a source of family friction for some time, with claims of jealousy and unfounded allegations.

Emotional Toll and Potential Hiatus

Insiders report that Sheeran is “in bits” over the entire affair, describing it as something he may “never get over.” His parents, Imogen and John, and his brother Matt are said to be providing support.

Sheeran’s manager, Stuart Camp, has traveled to the US to manage the fallout, with extensive transatlantic communication occurring among his team. Friends emphasize the depth of his emotional turmoil, noting his tears, anger, and profound upset at finding himself in such a difficult position where he feels unable to please everyone.

“He’s completely exhausted emotionally. Everyone involved is utterly drained,” a source close to the singer stated. “And every time he tries to make the situation better another celebrity comes out of the woodwork and criticizes him. He feels a bit exploited and used by others who seem to be enjoying the publicity at his expense.”

The star is reportedly considering a significant break from his music career. Friends suggest he desires to “stick on a baseball cap and pretend he’s not famous” for an extended period, drawing parallels to his past retreats to remote locations like Japan, Antarctica, Australia, and New Zealand.

Financial Implications and Industry Reactions

The possibility of cancelling the remaining tour dates was reportedly explored but deemed financially unfeasible. Sources indicate that cancelling the tour would have cost Sheeran approximately £30 million due to insurance limitations and substantial upfront costs for staging, transport, and ticket reimbursements, affecting around 750,000 ticket holders.

“People don’t seem to understand what the reality of cancelling those gigs would have actually looked like and cost Ed personally,” a source explained. “The artists speaking out have no clue how many people are relying on Ed for their livelihoods and he really respects that – he understands this isn’t just about him.”

Some in the music industry have labeled the situation a “PR disaster,” with one executive suggesting Sheeran should have cancelled the tour entirely. However, those close to Sheeran argue that cancellation was not a viable option given the financial and logistical complexities.

Support and Future Concerns

Despite feeling like “public enemy number one,” Sheeran has received support from long-term allies, including Elton John, with whom he communicates daily via video calls. Taylor Swift’s publicist did not respond to inquiries about her contact with Sheeran.

The tour is scheduled to conclude in Mexico City on December 11. Sheeran is reportedly apprehensive about an upcoming performance at Gillette Stadium, fearing it will reignite the controversy. However, friends believe the thought of his family awaiting his return will continue to sustain him.