ONE OK ROCK’s Taka hit by backlash after defending Ed Sheeran amid Macklemore–Palestine controversy

Facing mounting criticism, Taka issued an apology, saying his comment stemmed from personal friendship rather than political alignment. — Picture via Instagram

By Malay Mail

First Published: Tuesday, 22 Sep 2026 5:15 PM MYT

TOKYO, Sept 22 — ONE OK ROCK vocalist Taka is facing intense backlash online after publicly supporting Ed Sheeran, who has come under fire for removing rapper Macklemore from his Loop Tour lineup — a decision widely interpreted by fans as linked to Macklemore’s outspoken support for Palestine.

The controversy escalated after Taka left a supportive comment on Sheeran’s Instagram post about his Philadelphia show on September 19, praising the singer’s “courage” in the face of criticism.

“Ed, that took courage. To me, you’re a mirror. Much respect,” Taka wrote.

The comment immediately drew anger from ONE OK ROCK fans, many of whom accused Taka of being insensitive to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and of defending Sheeran’s decision to drop Macklemore — a move that had already sparked debate across the music industry. Some fans flooded Taka’s posts with “Free Palestine” messages and criticised him for “standing with the wrong side.”

Facing mounting criticism, Taka issued an apology, saying his comment stemmed from personal friendship rather than political alignment.

“If I caused misunderstanding, I’m sorry. I couldn’t stay silent seeing a friend in that situation,” he wrote.

He later clarified that he opposes war and violence against civilians and respects Macklemore’s right to express political views, while also defending Sheeran’s right to make decisions based on his own responsibilities as an artist.

Despite the clarification, backlash continues, with fans debating whether Taka’s defence of Sheeran reflects misplaced loyalty or a broader misunderstanding of the political and humanitarian stakes involved.