Ed Sheeran Discusses Irish Identity and Privacy

Ed Sheeran, though born and raised in England, identifies culturally as Irish, attributing this to his father's large Irish family and frequent holidays spent in Ireland during his childhood. In an interview with The Louis Theroux Podcast, Sheeran described early exposure to traditional Irish music and expressed pride in his Irish heritage, calling Ireland his second home and the place of his greatest musical success. He stressed that cultural identity should be shaped by personal experience and upbringing rather than birthplace or nationality. Sheeran also discussed the challenges fame brings, highlighting his sensitivity to protecting his children's privacy from paparazzi and public attention. He lamented the loss of normal family experiences due to his celebrity status. Sheeran argued that his children have not chosen public scrutiny and deserve privacy.