Ed Sheeran's support acts quit tour in support of Macklemore's 'Free Palestine' comments

BBC World Service· Sep 16, 2026· 47m 11s

One of the world's biggest music stars - Ed Sheeran faces the biggest controversy of his career, as his support acts on his tour quit when fellow musician Macklemore was dropped from the line up following his speech in support of a 'Free Palestine'. The speech drew controversy when his comments led to a petition from the Israeli American Council demanding his removal from the tour. It was successful, and other musicians dropped out in solidarity. Also on the programme: Ursula von der Leyen has b

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Welcome to the program. I'm your host.
Welcome to the program. I'm your host.
0:00
Today we look at the major stories shaping the news cycle.
Today we look at the major stories shaping the news cycle.
0:04
We start in Europe, where leaders met in Brussels.
We start in Europe, where leaders met in Brussels.
0:09
The summit focused on energy policy and migration.
The summit focused on energy policy and migration.
0:14
Reporting from the ground, our correspondent has more.
Reporting from the ground, our correspondent has more.
0:19
Thank you. The mood here was tense but constructive.
Thank you. The mood here was tense but constructive.
0:24