Overview
- The NRL confirmed on Tuesday that the October 4 grand final at Accor Stadium will go ahead without a headline pre-game act after negotiations with Tones and I broke down.
- Reports say talks collapsed over whether Tones and I would perform her hit 'Dance Monkey', but that specific claim has not been independently confirmed by the artist's camp.
- Chair Peter V’landys said the money set aside for a headline act will instead be used to help underprivileged junior players and community programs.
- Broadcaster Nine is reported to be unhappy with the decision because big-name pre-game entertainment helps attract casual TV viewers and sell advertising.
- The move ends a long run of grand-final pre-match shows — the first omission since 1998 — and comes as V’landys, known for tight cost control, faces scrutiny after a recent record broadcast deal.