The downvotes are likely because a) this post has nothing to do with their music, and b) music critics tend to come off as sanctimonious prigs.
As i said, my gut feeling is that his career with M&S was over anyways - you'd be hard pressed hearing him playing the banjo on any of the recent 2 albums.
Yet, it's sad seeing him throwing the towel, for whatever reason.
I understand it's tough to stand up against an internet mob, but in my opinion this is just the tip of the iceberg regarding reasons for him to quit.
It does sound like a hassle to be famous enough to get cancelled. I like the idea of niche fame, where you’re some huge fish in a tiny pond - just enough to make a living but not enough to get cancelled by the horde