CELEBRITY
Ed Sheeran Concert to Have Increased Security Amid Macklemore Fallout
Ed Sheeran’s upcoming Philadelphia concert is set to have a significant police presence as controversy surrounding his Loop Tour continues.
Sheeran is scheduled to perform Saturday, September 19, at Lincoln Financial Field. Philadelphia police confirmed that officers are working with the singer’s team to ensure appropriate security measures are in place for the event.
According to TMZ, a “sizable” number of officers will be deployed both inside and outside the stadium. Concertgoers are expected to pass through metal detectors, while some attendees may also undergo additional screening and pat-downs.
The heightened security comes amid ongoing controversy following Macklemore’s removal from Sheeran’s tour. Macklemore had made pro-Palestinian remarks during performances at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium, triggering backlash and ultimately his departure from the tour. Sheeran has said the decision to remove Macklemore was made by the tour promoter rather than by him personally.
Several other opening acts subsequently withdrew from the tour, adding to the controversy surrounding the remaining shows.
Meanwhile, pro-Palestinian groups have announced plans to demonstrate outside the Philadelphia concert. Local reporting says protesters are expected near the stadium ahead of the show.
Despite the increased police presence, law-enforcement sources cited by TMZ said there were no known specific threats against Sheeran as of Thursday. The additional security measures are therefore being presented as precautions amid the planned demonstrations and wider controversy.
With the concert approaching, attention will now be focused on Philadelphia as Sheeran takes the stage amid one of the most turbulent moments of his current tour.