Bill Maher references Macklemore's 2014 costume controversy during discussion of Ed Sheeran tour fallout
On his Friday show, Bill Maher mentioned Macklemore's 2014 stage outfit that was criticized as antisemitic while commenting on the rapper's removal from Ed Sheeran's tour over pro-Palestinian statements.
Bill Maher brought up rapper Macklemore's 2014 concert costume, which featured a dark wig, beard and a prosthetic nose, during his monologue on Friday's "Real Time." He linked the outfit to the current dispute in which Macklemore was dropped from Ed Sheeran's tour after making pro-Palestinian remarks. Maher noted that the controversy had led to Ed Sheeran's former opening act being replaced and cited reactions from figures such as Patriots owner Robert Kraft, who objected to the performance venue.
Maher also referenced comments from political figure Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez about changing radio stations when Ed Sheeran plays, and he expressed skepticism toward claims about the Gaza conflict, saying he had disproved them with "facts and figures" the previous week.
A spokesperson for Macklemore did not respond to requests for comment. In 2014, Macklemore had posted on his website that he respected all cultures and did not intend to offend with the costume, acknowledging that it could be perceived as a Jewish caricature. He later expressed regret that the incident caused negativity.
Macklemore has maintained his stance on the "Free Palestine" comments and urged Robert Kraft to match a $1 million donation to pro-Palestine groups. Kraft replied that he had already contributed $2 million to humanitarian aid for Gaza and was matching Sheeran's pledge.