Snoop Dogg is taking the AFL grand final seriously: ‘I know it’s not just a sport, it’s a way of life’
After nailing two goals on the MCG, Snoop Dogg is taking his duty as grand-final headliner seriously, saying AFL is “part of your DNA”.
The wave of controversy that followed after the AFL’s announcement of the iconic American artist was all but forgotten when he strutted into a function on Thursday.
The 53-year-old said all the right things when sitting down for an on-stage interview.
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“I’m expecting the crowd to be crazy, I know what this means,” he said.
“I’ve been coming to this country for years and I understand what this game is and what it means.
“I know that it’s not just a sport, it’s a way of life.
“I know it’s not just a team or club, it’s part of your DNA, so I understand what is at stake.
“I’m here to do my part and to bring what I bring to the table.”
Snoop made an instant impact on arrival in Melbourne, having a kick on the MCG on Tuesday with Collingwood star Nick and Josh Daicos.
The self-proclaimed athletic sports fan spectacularly kicked both of his kicks through for a goal, even one tricky snap from the pocket.
The famous artist, responsible for hits like ‘Drop It Like It’s Hot’, ‘Beautiful, and ‘Gin and Juice’, has even had his own footy card made, posting it to his 88.6 million Instagram followers.
Snoop will be joined by some “special” guests, who will be a surprise on the day.
Australian artists Vera Blue, Tash Sultana, Baker Boy and footy anthems man Mike Brady have already been confirmed in the line-up.
Snoop played it safe when asked for a tip between Geelong and the Brisbane Lions.
But he was presented with a jumper from both of the competing teams - the Lions one with Snoop on the back, the Cats guernsey with Dogg.
“I’m not going to split half the people that love me,” he said.
AFL boss Andrew Dillon defended the decision on the entertainment.
“I’ve been really confident with the choice of Snoop,” he said.
“He’s performed at the Olympics, he’s performed at a Super Bowl, and he’ll suit our stage.
“I’ve always been confident that he’d put on a show, but even more confident now.”
