Rock Legends Decline $20M AFL Grand Final Headline Spot; Katy Perry Steps In for $5M Performance
An iconic rock band declined a $20 million offer to headline the AFL Grand Final's pre-game show, leading organizers to hire pop star Katy Perry for $5 million. Despite negotiations, the AFL could not meet the Stones' asking price for a brief performance. Previously, Bruce Springsteen also turned down an invitation, showcasing the challenge of securing top-tier talent for the event. Perry delivered a lively 20-minute set featuring hits while adhering to AFL restrictions on new songs.
The AFL Grand Final pre-game entertainment faced a significant shake-up as iconic rock band The Rolling Stones allegedly declined a substantial $20 million offer to headline the event. Instead, pop sensation Katy Perry dazzled fans with a $5 million performance at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
The Rolling Stones Declines the Offer
AFL organisers had high hopes of featuring legendary band The Rolling Stones, comprised of Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and Ronnie Wood, at the Grand Final. Their recent successful US tour promoting their latest album, Hackney Diamonds, made them an appealing choice. However, sources indicate that negotiations fell through due to the band's steep asking price for a brief 20-minute performance.
Katy Perry Takes Center Stage
In light of the unsuccessful negotiations with The Rolling Stones, AFL officials turned to Katy Perry, who received a much lower fee of $5 million for her electrifying performance. Her set included tracks from her newly released album, with standout moments featuring two songs restricted to one by AFL management, which sparked conversations among fans.
A Concert to Remember
Katy Perry's 20-minute set captivated the audience, starting with her iconic anthem Roar, and followed by popular tracks such as Teenage Dream, Dark Horse, and Firework. She also collaborated with Tina Arena for a rendition of I Kissed A Girl and Arena's hit Chains. However, her decision to omit the well-known song Hot n Cold left fans surprised, especially since it has become synonymous with MasterChef Australia.
Past Attempts at Securing Global Stars
This isn't the first instance where the AFL has experienced difficulties in securing major headline acts for the Grand Final. Reports from the previous year indicated that Bruce Springsteen also declined a substantial offer for a performance, ultimately leading to KISS taking the stage instead. The ongoing search for global megastars reflects the high expectations placed on the event's entertainment segment.
