NRL Grand Final entertainment revealed after Tones and I pulled out
A string of huge Aussie acts will unite for an emotional NRL grand final performance after weeks of entertainment chaos.
A star-studded group of Australian musicians will reportedly come together for an emotional tribute to Jai Arrow at Sunday night’s NRL grand final, following weeks of uncertainty over the event’s entertainment.
Amy Shark and members of the Screaming Jets, Grinspoon, Peking Duk and Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers are set to perform before the Newcastle Knights take on the Sydney Roosters.
The Australian reports the artists will perform You’ll Never Walk Alone as Arrow completes a lap of honour at about 7.10pm, shortly before the 7.30pm kick-off.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.The South Sydney Rabbitohs star was forced to retire from rugby league earlier this year after being diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease.
The musicians will reportedly donate their appearance fees to MND causes.
The performance brings some clarity to a chaotic build-up to the grand final after talks with Australian singer Tones and I collapsed less than two weeks out from the game.
NRL boss Peter V’landys then indicated the traditional entertainment portion of the night would be scrapped, before changing course and teasing a “big surprise” for fans.
He subsequently revealed Arrow would be honoured before kick-off with a rendition of You’ll Never Walk Alone, but initially stopped short of revealing who would perform it.
The inclusion of members of Newcastle rock veterans the Screaming Jets is particularly fitting, with the Knights preparing to play in their first grand final in 25 years.
Fans had pushed for a Newcastle act to feature in the entertainment, with Silverchair among the most popular suggestions.
However, hopes of a one-night Silverchair reunion were dashed after the band declined the opportunity, leaving the Screaming Jets as another hometown favourite.
Amy Shark is also no stranger to rugby league’s biggest stage, having previously performed at the 2020 NRL grand final.
Grinspoon appeared at the 2004 decider alongside American singer Chris Isaak, while Peking Duk and Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers have extensive experience performing at major Australian festivals.
