In a candid and wide-ranging discussion on The Louis Theroux Podcast, global superstar Ed Sheeran delved into his career, personal struggles, and memorable encounters within the music industry. The conversation, which also touched upon Louis Theroux's own viral hit "Jiggle Jiggle," offered listeners an intimate look into Sheeran's world.
Sheeran opened up about his journey through depression and grief following the loss of his friend Jamal Edwards, his wife's illness, and concurrent legal battles. "I just couldn’t feel joy," he confessed, detailing a "cloud period" where he found it difficult to experience happiness. He credits therapy, a better work-life balance, and music for helping him navigate this challenging time.
The artist also addressed the contentious copyright trials he faced, stating, "I'm getting accused of being a thief and I'm wanting to prove that I'm not a thief." He emphasized the rarity of artists fighting such cases in court, noting that most opt for quiet, out-of-court settlements. Sheeran, however, chose to prove his innocence, despite the "toxic environment" of the courtroom.
Recalling his early days in London, Sheeran spoke warmly of Jamal Edwards' pivotal role in launching his career. He frequently stayed at Edwards' home, unable to afford his own place. "Every ounce of anything that I was making was going into travel and food," he shared, highlighting the struggles before his breakthrough.
Sheeran also revealed his preference for commercial flights over private jets, stating, "I like the environment. I like trees. I find it hard to justify eco stuff." He shared a humorous anecdote about a Ryanair flight where a fan requested a selfie while his child had an accident on him.
Among his surreal career moments, Sheeran recounted meeting Van Morrison. Waking up to a 6 AM call, he initially dismissed it, only to realize "Mr. Morrison" was the legendary Van Morrison himself, who wanted to pick his brain about the then-nascent Spotify. Sheeran expressed his admiration, noting, "Spotify was quite a new thing at that point, and I had embraced Spotify quite early in my career and I think he was asking me to explain Spotify to him basically."
The conversation also touched on the burden of fame and its impact on his family. Sheeran expressed concern for his brother, a composer, who often faces questions about him without the benefits of his celebrity. "I always feel weird that how difficult my brother has it wherever he goes," he mused.
The Louis Theroux Podcast is available on Spotify and all podcast platforms.
