Ed Sheeran’s North American Loop Tour has been thrown into disarray after four supporting acts withdrew in solidarity with Macklemore, who was dropped from the tour’s opening slot over pro-Palestinian comments he made on stage.

The row began at the September 5 show at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium, where Macklemore exclaimed “Free Palestine!” while introducing his protest song “Hind’s Hall”. He later said that several US venues had told the tour’s promoters they would prohibit him from performing. He had been scheduled to appear at eight of Sheeran’s ten remaining stadium dates.

Sheeran responded on Instagram on Tuesday, distancing himself from the decision. “Macklemore coming off tour was the promoter’s decision; it was not mine,” he wrote, adding that he had allowed the rapper to perform a set list of his choosing, as with all his support acts, and that he would not abandon fans, crew or the other musicians who rely on the tour for work.

Within hours, Irish singer Aaron Rowe, Irish band Beoga, Danish band Lukas Graham and Finneas all announced on Instagram that they were withdrawing. Rowe and Lukas Graham had been lined up as Macklemore’s replacements for the remaining US dates; Beoga had been performing several songs with Sheeran mid-set; and Finneas, Billie Eilish’s brother and collaborator, was due to join the South American leg later this year.

The departures leave Sheeran’s team with significant logistical gaps ahead of the tour’s resumption in Philadelphia, and have widened a debate about the limits on political expression on stage and the role promoters and venues play in deciding who performs.

It remains unclear whether new support acts will be recruited for the remaining dates.

Sources: AP via InDaily; 1News; TNND.

Dorset Museum and Art Gallery’s Thomas Hardy Memorial Collection – the world’s largest collection dedicated to the writer and poet, including manuscripts, notebooks, correspondence, artworks and even Hardy’s study – has been awarded Designated status by Arts Council England. It is one of a record nine collections added to the Designation Scheme at the panel’s latest meeting, announced in September 2026; only two collections achieved the status in 2025. The designation marks a pivotal moment for the collection, emphasizing its national significance and the enduring legacy of Hardy’s literary contributions.

Arts Council England’s designation is not merely an honorific; it is a testament to the collection’s outstanding value to the nation. Such recognition is part of a larger initiative aimed at highlighting and preserving culturally and historically important collections across the UK. The Council’s selection criteria are rigorous, ensuring that only collections of the highest merit receive acknowledgment. This involves assessing the collection’s relevance, historical significance, and its potential to engage the public and scholars alike.

Dorset Museum plays a crucial role in maintaining and showcasing this collection, with much of the Hardy archive held on deposit at the Dorset History Centre in Dorchester, where it is free to view by appointment. The museum’s efforts to preserve Hardy’s manuscripts, letters, and personal artifacts have been instrumental in achieving this designation. This recognition places the museum among esteemed institutions that have been entrusted with the care of the nation’s cultural treasures. Not only does it elevate the museum’s profile, but it also attracts scholars, literary enthusiasts, and tourists, further solidifying its status as a center for cultural heritage.

The Arts Council’s decision to highlight the Hardy collection is part of a broader movement to recognize and support collections that contribute to the UK’s cultural tapestry. The initiative seeks to bring attention to collections that might otherwise remain underappreciated, ensuring their preservation for future generations. This aligns with the Council’s commitment to fostering a deeper appreciation for cultural and historical assets, thereby enriching the nation’s collective memory.

The inclusion of the Hardy collection in this prestigious group of recognized archives is reflective of Hardy’s enduring influence on literature and culture. His works, which vividly capture the essence of rural England and the complexities of human experience, continue to resonate with audiences today. The collection offers a unique insight into Hardy’s life and inspiration, making it a vital resource for understanding the context and impact of his writings.

The recognition by Arts Council England not only celebrates Hardy’s legacy but also underscores the importance of preserving such collections for educational and cultural enrichment. It highlights the need for ongoing support and investment in the arts, ensuring that future generations have access to these invaluable resources. The designation serves as a call to action for stakeholders, including educational institutions, government bodies, and private benefactors, to contribute to the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage.

As the Dorset museum prepares to celebrate this achievement, it anticipates an increase in visitor numbers and interest in its exhibits. The recognition provides a platform to expand its educational programs and outreach initiatives, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation of Hardy’s work. This is a significant opportunity for the museum to further cement its role as a custodian of cultural heritage and a beacon for literary scholarship.

Looking ahead, the designation by Arts Council England is expected to open new avenues for collaboration and funding, enabling the Dorset museum to enhance its offerings and reach a wider audience. This recognition not only elevates the status of the Hardy collection but also reinforces the importance of preserving and promoting the nation’s cultural artifacts. As the museum embarks on this new chapter, it stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Thomas Hardy and the power of literature to transcend time and space.

On the weekend of September 11–13, 2026, Warner Bros.’ ‘Practical Magic 2’, reuniting Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman as sisters Sally and Gillian Owens, opened at No. 1 at the North American box office with an estimated $30 million from 4,146 theatres, ending the six-weekend run of ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ at the top. The sequel to the 1998 film added about $16 million from 77 international markets, for a worldwide opening of roughly $46 million, according to Associated Press estimates. Audiences were warmer than critics: the film drew a 92% Rotten Tomatoes audience score against a 39% critics’ score. The film’s enchanting performance at the box office is a testament to its widespread appeal and the enduring charm of the original film.

The success of ‘Practical Magic 2′ can be attributed to a combination of factors. Nostalgia played a significant role in drawing audiences to theaters, as fans of the original film eagerly anticipated the continuation of the Owens sisters’ magical journey. The sequel’s marketing campaign capitalized on this sentiment, highlighting beloved elements from the first film while promising fresh twists and new spells. This approach successfully attracted both returning fans and new viewers, expanding the film’s audience.

For fans, ‘Practical Magic 2’ aims to strike a balance between honoring its predecessor and introducing new storylines, though critics were less convinced. This balance is crucial for sequels, as it allows them to resonate with existing fans while still being accessible to newcomers. The film’s blend of romance, fantasy, and drama, set against a backdrop of witchcraft and family dynamics, offers something for everyone. It is a magical formula that has evidently worked at the box office.

The cast of ‘Practical Magic 2’ also contributed to its success. The return of Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman in their original roles brought an added layer of excitement to the film for fans of the first instalment. This continuity provided a sense of familiarity and comfort for fans, enhancing the film’s appeal.

Moreover, the film’s visual effects are central to its appeal, bringing its magical elements to life. These effects are not just eye candy; they are seamlessly integrated into the narrative, reinforcing the film’s themes and emotional beats.

The timing of ‘Practical Magic 2’s release also played a role in its box office triumph. With its release falling just before the Halloween season, the film tapped into a natural increase in audience interest in supernatural and fantasy themes. This strategic timing likely contributed to its strong opening weekend performance, as viewers sought out entertainment that aligned with the seasonal mood.

As the film continues its theatrical run, its performance will be closely watched by industry analysts. The strong opening numbers suggest a promising future, with potential to maintain its momentum through word of mouth and repeat viewings. The film’s reception highlights the enduring appeal of stories that blend magic with relatable human experiences, tapping into universal themes of love, family, and self-discovery.

Looking ahead, ‘Practical Magic 2’ sets a high bar for future sequels and adaptations within the genre. Its success demonstrates the commercial viability of films that strike a balance between nostalgia and innovation. For studios, this serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding and leveraging audience sentiment in crafting compelling narratives. As the film continues to enchant viewers worldwide, it stands as a testament to the power of well-told stories and the magic of cinema.