The complex question of what it is to be culturally Irish in 2025

Ed Sheeran grew up in England but described himself as 'culturally Irish,' prompting debate about what that really means

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He sang wistfully of the English town that shaped his life.

"Found my heart and broke it here. Made friends and lost them through the years. And I've not seen the roaring fields in so long, I know I've grown. But I can't wait to go home."

Ed Sheeran grew up in Framlingham in Suffolk and its rolling hills and magnificent castle inspired his hit single, Castle on the Hill. It was the homeplace he pined for.

So when he recently described himself as "culturally Irish," the singer faced social media criticism on both sides of the Irish Sea.