Ed Sheeran’s cousin, Jethro Sheeran, has publicly criticised the singer amid controversy over Macklemore’s removal from the Loop Tour.

Jethro, a British musician known professionally as Alonestar, shared his comments on Instagram on September 17, saying he was “ashamed” of his cousin.

He also alleged that Ed had mistreated him personally and professionally.

“Finally it’s all coming out! I’m ashamed of my Cousin Ed,” Jethro wrote. “Finally the world and all his fans see through him. He’s not a good person, I don’t like his music so I can’t say he’s even a good artist.”

Jethro further accused the singer of being selfish and making fun of his mental health. He claimed he had supported Ed’s early music career, including taking him to a studio and performing on early songs.

Addressing Macklemore’s removal from the tour, Jethro added, “He is shady and he’s dropped Macklemore himself I believe 100% he’s a coward.”

The controversy followed Macklemore’s performances at Ed’s MetLife Stadium concerts, where he chanted “Free Palestine” and performed his protest song “Hind’s Hall”.

The rapper was subsequently removed from the remaining eight Loop Tour dates.

At a Philadelphia concert on September 19, Ed addressed the backlash, acknowledging that he had made mistakes and apologising to fans.

“This week, the criticism was about something much more important, and I’ve had to take [it in] and make difficult decisions, and I am making mistakes, and I’m so so sorry.”