Ed Sheeran has never been one to shy away from a challenge — he’s performed to millions across the globe, sung in every corner of the world, and even filmed music videos in the most unexpected places. But there’s one gig the 34-year-old superstar turned down — a concert in outer space.
During a candid chat on The Scott Mills Breakfast Show this week, Sheeran stunned listeners when he revealed that he was once offered the chance to perform beyond Earth’s atmosphere. “I got an actual offer to play in space,” the Shape of You singer said with a laugh. “It sounded completely mad — but at the time, I was like, yeah… maybe not.”
When host Scott Mills pressed him on why he said no, Sheeran offered a deeply personal and grounded reason. “I’ve got two little girls now,” he explained. “And honestly, as incredible as it would’ve been, I just couldn’t justify the risk. I don’t want to be the guy who goes off to space and never comes back. I’d rather be here with them.”
The revelation left Mills momentarily speechless, before joking, “So you’re telling me you turned down the ultimate gig?” Sheeran chuckled, replying, “Yeah — the pay was out of this world, but the insurance probably wasn’t.”
While Sheeran didn’t disclose who made the offer, insiders have speculated it could have come from one of the major commercial space travel companies, such as SpaceX or Virgin Galactic, which have previously explored the idea of musical performances in orbit.
The discussion came as part of Sheeran’s promotional tour for his latest album Play, which he described as his most “energetic and experimental” record yet. During the interview, he also opened up about his plans to temporarily relocate to the U.S. for his upcoming world tour, as well as his close friendship with fellow artist Lewis Capaldi, who recently returned to performing after a break to focus on his health.
“Lewis is one of the bravest people I know,” Sheeran said warmly. “Seeing him back on stage, doing what he loves — it’s inspiring. He’s got such a pure heart, and people connect with that. I’m so proud of him.”
But it was the space confession that truly caught fans’ attention, quickly trending online as clips of the interview circulated across social media. Fans praised Sheeran for his humility and priorities, with one writing, “Ed Sheeran turning down a gig in space because he’s a dad first — that’s the most Ed Sheeran thing ever.” Another joked, “Can you imagine ‘Thinking Out Loud’ floating through zero gravity?”
Though Sheeran may never make it beyond Earth’s atmosphere, his down-to-earth perspective continues to endear him to millions. As he summed it up perfectly on-air:
“I’ve already played everywhere I’ve ever dreamed of. The only place left is home — and that’s where I’d rather be.”
