Ed Sheeran's cousin Jethro has publicly criticised the singer, alleging he has witnessed him acting as a "lying coward" over the past ten years. The remarks come amid the fallout from Macklemore's removal from Sheeran's tour line-up.
Tour Controversy and Family Criticism
In recent days, all of Sheeran's support acts for his current tour dropped out of the remaining dates after Macklemore, real name Benjamin Haggerty, was removed from the line-up over comments he made about Gaza. Sheeran, 35, has refused to comment on the situation or disclose his own political beliefs, opting to continue with his global tour, though he denied any personal involvement in Macklemore's removal.
During one of his most recent shows, Sheeran broke down on stage and claimed his loved ones had "abandoned" him amid the furore. Now, his cousin Jethro, known professionally as Alonestar and working as a musician and record producer, has spoken out against the singer.
Jethro's Accusations on Piers Morgan Uncensored
Speaking on Piers Morgan Uncensored, Jethro said: "I'm Jethro Sheeran, he's Edward Sheeran. We're both Sheerans, we're cousins. Seeing what he did to Macklemore, I believe that he kicked him off that show, as I've witnessed him being a coward for almost 10 years and lying."
When host Piers Morgan suggested Jethro appears to hold disdain towards his cousin, Jethro insisted there was no jealousy, adding: "He's very talented and people think I'm jealous, but jealous of what? His looks, his guitar? I mean, I don't hate him at all. I wish him the best and I really..."
Sheeran's Emotional Stage Return
When Sheeran returned to the stage on Saturday, he acknowledged the situation, telling the crowd it had been "one of the worst weeks of [his] life." Becoming visibly emotional, he added: "Today has been one of the weirdest days of my life. Tonight has been honestly the best show of my life, the best show. I really didn't know whether this tour would be carrying on. I really didn't know whether I'd even be getting on stage again, whether I even wanted to be an artist at all. In these situations, you really find out who your friends are, and it's been a weird week."
Though Sheeran's wife, Cherry, and his parents are standing by him, Jethro previously spoke out against him, saying: "I'm ashamed of my cousin Ed. He's a coward."
Political Stances and Past Actions
In a statement posted to social media, Sheeran said: "I do not use my professional platform for politics - my audience includes young people, often children, of all backgrounds. Those who come to my shows do not expect a political forum." However, there have been multiple instances in the past where Sheeran has taken a political stance. In March 2022, he publicly backed Ukraine after the Russian invasion and performed at Concert for Ukraine, a charity concert raising money for humanitarian aid. At the time, he said: "I just wanted to say to all Ukrainians, I love you, I stand with you, and I'm so proud to be playing this fundraising event next week."
He also took part in the Beautiful Resistance campaign in 2019, coordinated by Love Music Hate Racism, aimed at challenging racism in the UK. Two years later, Sheeran signed an open letter to the US Senate urging them to pass the Equality Act, which would protect LGBTQIA people from discrimination. The Mirror has contacted Ed Sheeran's representatives for comment.
