Ed Sheeran is Where I Draw the Line

One of my favourite singers of all time, Ed Sheeran has gotten himself in quite a bit of controversy over his decision to prioritize music and money above political activism. He has literally received heavy backlash for doing nothing. Below is basically what happened, as reported by NBC.

Ed Sheeran’s international tour has been thrown into chaos after all four of his supporting acts, including Finneas and Lukas Graham, abruptly quit. They walked out in solidarity with rapper Macklemore, who was dropped by the tour’s promoters over pro-Palestinian comments he made onstage

Apparently people are mad at Ed for not coming out in rebuke of the decision and choosing to focus on the music and tour instead. While I don't encourage neutrality when it comes to pressing cultural and political issues, there is absolutely nothing wrong with sitting on the fence. Even more annoying is the expectation that we are meant to be active advocates for these issues.

Celebrities with amplified voices like Ed, one of the most popular and successful Musicians of his time should harbour reservations on giving their opinions on sensitive issues. If you feel strongly on an issue and want to use your platform then its fine, but most successful celebrities will not lay their political opinions bare unless they are compelled to do so, usually by the media.

What's with this bringing of political and cultural issues into every and all entertainment? Let the man play his music for Heavens sake. Ed, you are allowed to be a fencist. All those who claim they suddenly hate him for not coming out with his opinions are simply jumping on the sentimental bandwagon until the next controversial issue or person comes along.