Sheeran Reacts to Cousin's Digs Amid Tour Controversy: 'Haven't Spoken in a Very Long Time'

Ed Sheeran addressed a family dispute during his October 3 concert in Atlanta, saying messages he recently received were from a relative he hadn’t spoken to in a long time. While he didn’t name the person, context pointed to his cousin Jethro Sheeran, who in a September 17 post said he was “ashamed” of Ed after the singer’s Loop Tour controversy involving Macklemore. Macklemore, 43, was dismissed from the tour after backlash over chants at New Jersey shows. Ed said he had made “mistakes,” apologized, and emphasized supporting freedom of speech, while denying involvement in Macklemore’s removal. The Fray’s Isaac Slade joined as a support act on Saturday.