Ed Sheeran ‘offers to perform on SNL remotely’ as producers ‘scramble’ to find replacement

Ed is unable to perform on SNL next week (Picture: Will Heath/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images via Getty Images)

Ed Sheeran’s Covid-19 diagnosis has left Saturday Night Live producers ‘scrambling’ to replace him next weekend.

The 30-year-old confirmed on Instagram on Sunday that he had ‘sadly tested positive for Covid’, and the timing couldn’t be worse as Ed is set to release his new album = (pronounced Equals) this Friday.

Part of the promo push for the record was a musical guest gig on SNL on November 6.

However, his positive test means travelling through the US is no longer an option.

A source told Page Six that producers are ‘scrambling’ to find a replacement for Ed, ideally ‘another singer who appeals to the same demo’.

They chose Shawn Mendes or Justin Bieber as potential replacements.

Ed – who last appeared as a musical guest on the show in 2017 – has offered to perform remotely, although it has not been decided whether this could be an option.

The insider added: ‘Ed is offering to perform live via video link, but this isn’t something SNL does. The show likes to have the performer in studio.’

The legendary comedy show has form in finding last minute replacements for acts. 

Last October, Jack White was enlisted with just two days to go to replace Morgan Wallen as musical guest, after the country star broke Covid-19 rules to party without a mask. 

Succession star Kieran Culkin is set to host the November 6 show. 

More: Coronavirus

Ed announced that his upcoming in-person commitments had been cancelled with a statement shared on Sunday evening.

The Bad Habits singer wrote: ‘Hey guys. Quick note to tell you that I’ve sadly tested positive for Covid, so I’m now self-isolating and following government guidelines. It means that I’m now unable to plough ahead with any in person commitments for now, so I’ll be doing as many of my planned interviews/performances I can from my house. 

‘Apologies to anyone I’ve let down. Be safe everyone.’

The star’s fourth solo album = is set for release on October 29, and is expected to reach number one with ease. 

However, he will probably only enjoy a maximum of three weeks on top, as Adele’s fourth album 30 is out on November 19. 

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