Shannon Noll Launches Online Campaign for NRL Grand Final Gig
The Australian singer is publicly vying for a pre-game performance slot after Tones and I withdrew.
Shannon Noll has initiated an online campaign to secure a performing spot at the NRL Grand Final, following the withdrawal of Tones and I. The Australian Idol star has repeatedly expressed his availability for the pre-game show through social media and public interviews.
Noll, 51, shared an AI-generated poster on Instagram with the caption "Ready and willing!" that stated, "Nollsie is available for the NRL grand final pre-game show." He later posted a video panning over images of past Grand Final performers, asking, "What about me?"
Appearing on television and radio programs, including SEN and the Today show, Noll reiterated his interest. "I put a post up saying I was available, just so that you know we wouldn't have a nothing show," he told Today. "I was just sort of saying you know, if you need someone, I'm free and I would love to do it."
If selected, Noll proposed performing a tribute to the late rocker Angry Anderson by covering his band Rose Tattoo's hit song "We Can't Be Beaten." "He was a great mate of mine. He'll be sorely missed. I thought, what a great tribute to him," Noll said.
Noll stated he had not yet been contacted by the NRL but joked that he would be a more cost-effective option than Tones and I, who was reportedly set to earn $1 million for the performance. "I think there will be plenty of money left over for grassroots footy if they got me," he remarked.
The position became available after Tones and I cancelled her performance days before the event. While widespread reports suggested the decision was due to a dispute over performing her hit song "Dance Monkey," her management released a statement denying this, citing a scheduling conflict with a U.S. gig.
Australian Rugby League Commission chairman Peter V'landys has publicly criticized the expense of NRL Grand Final entertainment, suggesting the funds could be better allocated to grassroots initiatives. He announced that the NRL would donate $1 million to underprivileged children in junior rugby league instead of seeking a replacement act.
The Grand Final is scheduled to take place at Sydney's Accor Stadium on October 4.