Ed Sheeran recently revealed that he turned down an offer to become a Fortnite skin because he doesn't play the game.
Countless celebrities have collaborated with Fortnite over the years, from singers to content creators to athletes. Epic Games has worked with artists like Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande, Travis Scott, and more. One name that has not and likely will not partner with Fortnite is Grammy Award-winning singer Ed Sheeran.
In a recent interview, the global sensation revealed he had the opportunity to work with Fortnite but turned it down. Here’s what the artist had to say regarding a crossover that could have been.
Ed Sheeran turned down the collab because he doesn’t play Fortnite
Whether some of the members of Fortnite’s illustrious Icon Series actually play the game has never been an issue. Most see it as an opportunity to promote themselves and their brands to millions of gamers. The likes of Doja Cat have gone on record saying that she plays Fortnite and has even streamed herself doing so.
Ed Sheeran kept his reason simple during an interview on the Warnes Way Podcast: “I don’t play Fortnite.” The singer explained that he typically attaches his name, face, and brand to products he uses often. For example, Sheeran is a diehard ketchup fan, which led to a partnership in 2019.
Despite his record label approaching him with the collab, Fortnite didn’t make sense because he doesn’t play the game. Instead, Sheeran collaborated with Pokémon, producing the song “Celestial” in 2022. It is worth noting that his song “Shivers” made it into Fortnite as a Jam Track, but that’s the extent of his partnership with Epic Games.
Some celebrities do not play Fortnite despite being in the game
Lady Gaga publicly stated she wasn’t even aware of Fortnite’s existence. In 2019, long before she joined the game via Fortnite Festival, she infamously posted, “What’s fortnight.” Although she’s in the game now, it’s unclear whether she’s ever even played it.
It’s safe to assume many other celebrities are in a similar position, as the game has become a marketing tool of sorts. Ed Sheeran declining the Fortnite offer is admirable, since it’s not something he’d particularly enjoy, whereas working with Pokémon made more sense for his personal interests.
He is likely one of many to turn down Fortnite, whether it wouldn’t fit their brand or it doesn’t suit their taste.