Tones and I deal falls apart, NRL grand final loses major pre-game performer
The NRL scrapped pre-game entertainment after negotiations with Tones and I broke down over her performing Dance Monkey.
The NRL grand final will go ahead without a headline pre-game entertainment act. Negotiations with Australian artist Tones and I collapsed this week.
The sticking point was whether the 33-year-old would perform her hit Dance Monkey, which the NRL said was non-negotiable. Rather than pay for the performance, the NRL announced it will donate $1 million to junior rugby league instead.
NRL Commission chairman Peter V'landys said spending $90,000 per minute on 11 minutes of entertainment was not worth it. The decision comes just months after the AFL secured Kylie Minogue for its grand final.
V'landys said the money would help kids from poor families who cannot afford to play rugby league.
- Tones and I, age 33
- Artist
- Dance Monkey, No. 1 in 30+ countries
- Hit song
- $90,000 per minute for 11 minutes
- Performance cost
- $1 million to junior league
- Donation amount
Why it mattersThe NRL values grassroots investment over celebrity spectacle, signalling a shift in how it allocates resources around its biggest annual event.
AustraliaAustralian rugby league fans will see no major musical act at this Sunday's grand final, while junior players in under-resourced communities may gain better access to the sport.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 d ago
