Billionaire Robert Kraft Responds to Ed Sheeran’s Donation Appeal
(UPI) — Billionaire Robert Kraft, who serves as the CEO and chairman of the Kraft Group, revealed that Ed Sheeran reached out to him, asking him to match the singer’s $2 million contribution aimed at helping those impacted by the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza.
Kraft, known as the owner of the New England Patriots and Gillette Stadium, shared this information on Wednesday. This statement came during a time when there was significant discussion around Macklemore’s recent removal from the Loop tour after the rapper voiced support for Palestinians.
Kraft conveyed that Sheeran had requested him to contribute $2 million “to aid in the region to fight this humanitarian crisis” and mentioned that Sheeran intended to connect with other venue owners for support. “Our goal is to continue to work together to build bridges,” he added, reflecting his aim to foster understanding.
Earlier that day, Macklemore, known as Ben Haggerty, publicly stated his plan to donate $1 million from his earnings on the Loop tour to six organizations that support Palestinians, suggesting that Kraft consider doing something similar.
In his statement, Kraft clarified that Sheeran’s request for a matching donation was made before Macklemore’s public appeal. He mentioned his lifelong commitment to bridging gaps among people, expressing that he has, over decades, supported initiatives that create opportunities for Palestinians, and has facilitated relationships between young Palestinians and Israelis.
On Monday, Macklemore disclosed that he had been removed from Sheeran’s tour. He stated that Sheeran informed him that Kraft had barred him from performing at Gillette Stadium, leading to an ultimatum from Kraft and other venue owners: if Macklemore remained on the tour, Sheeran would not be able to perform at their locations.
Macklemore indicated that this ultimatum came after he expressed his support for Palestinians and a free Palestine while performing for Sheeran on September 4 and 5 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Sheeran clarified on Tuesday that the decision to drop Macklemore was made by the promoter and not by him personally.
The removal of Macklemore has sparked backlash directed at both Kraft and Sheeran. Following this controversy, all four remaining supporting acts have opted to withdraw from the tour.
Sheeran’s upcoming performances include a show on Saturday at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, followed by two concerts at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, on September 25 and 26.
