Country singer Robbie Mortimer was forced to put his phone away after his version of Advance Australia Fair at the NRL’s State of Origin opener on Wednesday night was brutally torched by online critics.

Fans, who can be typically harsh when it comes to judging national anthem singers, slammed Mortimer’s performance, but even journalists joined in, describing it as horrendous and one of the worst performances of all time.

Taking objection to one comment by veteran journalist Peter FitzSimons (who’s famous for his bandana and has a pirate-like skull as his profile pic on X), Mortimer said “I just got called out by a pirate.”

But Mortimer — who hails from a famous rugby league family — has also revealed the barrage of comments was hard to take.

Borderlines (a music artist consultancy and management firm) CEO Adam Simon leapt to Mortimer’s defence and issued a passionate statement.

“I’ll be the first to acknowledge that Robbie Mortimer’s rendition of the national anthem may not have gone the way anyone hoped. But what’s happened since says far more about us than it does about him,” Simon said.

“Nobody deserves to be torn apart by thousands of strangers online over one moment. Robbie is not just a performer — he’s a human being, a mate, and part of our country music family. It takes courage to stand in front of a crowd and sing live, knowing things can go wrong.

“Australian music has always been built on authenticity, community, and standing by each other through the highs and lows. Right now, instead of piling on, maybe it’s time we showed some compassion and support for someone who is already well aware of how the performance was received.

“You don’t have to love the performance to still show kindness.

“Let’s remember that behind every headline, meme, and comment section is a real person who has feelings, family, friends, and a career.”

And an emotional Mortimer responded.

“Adam. I’ve spent the day off my phone and haven’t replied to many people,” he said.

“But want to say, thank you for taking the time to be a human and express your support!

“You didn’t have to stick your neck out for me on a day like today but you did and I will never forget that.

“I’ve had an overwhelming amount of support from strangers, friends and wonderful people in our industry! Thank you mate. You’re one of the good ones.”

Mortimer has also received widespread support from others within the industry.

Music influencer Sienna Mallon said: “As a Robbie fan you smashed it mate.”

And rising country music star Saralyn said: “Loved it Robbie.”

Aussie singer-songwriter Jack Botts said: “Let’s gooooo brother!!! So sick. Love ya but maroon would look way better on you though, just sayin, xx.”

Fans of Mortimer were also in his corner.

“From a true fan mate. You owned your moment and I loved every second of it. It was genuine and you could tell. The haters hate you coz they ain’t you,” one fan said on Facebook.