Ed Sheeran forced to cancel upcoming shows at Robert Kraft’s Gillette Stadium

It comes as the tour made headlines after removing Macklemore over pro-Palestine speech

The singer had been due to perform at the home of the New England Patriots on Friday and Saturday as part of his current US tour.

The cancellation comes just days after the tour made headlines following the removal of support act Macklemore over his pro-Palestine stance, prompting a number of other opening acts, including Aaron Rowe and Sheeran's touring band Beoga, to pull out of the tour.

Macklemore was removed from the tour after making pro-Palestinian comments during his performances, including calling for a "Free Palestine".

The American rapper later claimed that New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft had been instrumental in getting him removed, while Kraft's representatives said the decision followed concerns over Macklemore's recent actions and material, which they said crossed the line on hate speech.

Irish acts Aaron Rowe and Beoga were among those to pull out, while Finneas and Lukas Graham also withdrew from their respective dates.

Sheeran performed without an opening act at a show in Philadelphia, although other musicians joined him during his set.

The singer has said that Macklemore's removal was a decision made by the promoter rather than himself.

He also addressed the situation during his Philadelphia performance, describing the 'conflict' in Gaza as 'catastrophic and unjustifiable' while saying he did not want his concerts to become political forums.

Now, just as the tour prepares to move on, Sheeran's two Gillette Stadium shows have been cancelled for a completely different reason.

A statement from the venue said the decision was made following consultation with local officials, the promoter and the tour team because of severe weather warnings across Boston and New England.

"The decision was made with the safety of fans, staff and everyone involved in the shows as the top priority," the statement said.

Fans who purchased tickets through Ticketmaster will be automatically refunded, while other ticket buyers can get refunds from their original point of purchase.

A major 'nor'easter' is expected to bring heavy rain and strong winds to the region, with the weather forecast already causing disruption to preparations for the concerts.

Stage construction for the back-to-back shows was reportedly halted earlier this week as the weekend's forecast became increasingly concerning.

So, in a quiet twist of irony, after all the controversy surrounding who would and wouldn't take to the stage, it is the weather that has ultimately stopped the shows from going ahead.