Before taking the stage at Boston Calling, crooner Ed Sheeran was busy spreading cheer at the Boston Children's Hospital, turning the medical venue into a personal concert hall. In a heartwarming scene, patients at the hospital were serenaded by Sheeran on Thursday, where the "Shape of You" singer delivered renditions of "Perfect" and "Castle on the Hill", as per requests from some of his youngest fans; the acoustic set played hospital-wide for those confined to their rooms, CBS Boston reported.
Not just a hitmaker but also a snapshot sensation, Sheeran stayed to chat, pose for pictures with droves of adoring patients and their families, and, according to the hospital spokesperson, "filled the hospital with such positive energy," with the memorable day promised to linger in hospital lore.
Later, Sheeran swapped the hospital halls for a courtside view at TD Garden, emerging at the Boston Celtics game where he was spotted next to "Mean Girls" star and fellow Boston Calling performer Renée Rapp, as they watched the Celtics face off against the Indiana Pacers. Rapp is also on the lineup to perform on the Green Stage, taking the spotlight before Sheeran at 5:55 p.m. on Friday.
The visit to the children's hospital wasn't Sheeran's first brush with philanthropy, as noted by WCVB; it adds up to a series of charitable outings that seem to pave the way to his Massachusetts concerts, like the time he surprised a group of young musicians last summer before breaking attendance records at Gillette Stadium, a warm prelude to his headlining act Friday where he is set to charm concert-goers with the same gusto he's shared with the kids.
Whether in a stadium filled with thousands or a hospital room for one, Sheeran's presence in Boston is characterized by intimate performances and personal connections that do more than just entertain; they inspire. "Thank you for the perfect day," the Boston Children's Hospital's Instagram post aptly summed up Sheeran's visit, reflecting not only their gratitude but the sentiments of fans and families touched by the musician's genuine acts of kindness.
