The National Rugby League (NRL) is on high alert after American singer Teddy Swims canceled two performances in Hawaii over the weekend. Swims, who is slated to headline the grand final pre-game entertainment at Accor Stadium this Sunday, walked off stage mid-performance last Friday, citing illness as the reason.
Swims addressed his fans via Instagram, where he has eight million followers, explaining the situation.
“Honolulu, I’m so sorry to let you know that both tonight’s show (Saturday, September 27) and tomorrow’s (Sunday, September 28) rescheduled performance will not be taking place,” he wrote. “My doctor has not cleared me to sing, and I need a little time to recover before I can give you the show you deserve. I hate to disappoint you and truly apologise for letting you down. Thank you for your love, patience, and understanding. I can’t wait until I’m back and able to sing for you again.”
Despite the uncertainty, NRL officials are optimistic that Swims will recover in time for the grand final, although the potential for a last-minute change remains a concern. The decision to feature Swims as the headliner was well-received by fans when announced earlier this month.
NRL’s Strategic Entertainment Choice
The choice of Teddy Swims for the NRL grand final was a strategic move, especially in the wake of the Australian Football League’s (AFL) selection of Snoop Dogg for their grand final entertainment. NRL boss Peter V’landys had previously expressed confidence in their choice, highlighting Swims’ vocal prowess compared to the AFL’s selection.
V’landys commented on the decision, stating,
“We saw what the FLA (AFL) got — what’s he called, Labrador or Poodle? I’m not sure, all I know is that it is a dog act. So, we had to get better than that. We actually got a vocalist; none of this doof, doof stuff. This bloke can actually sing.”
Swims, who boasts 42 million monthly listeners on Spotify and over two billion streams for his hit song “Lose Control,” expressed his enthusiasm for performing at the NRL grand final.
“I am so excited to be performing at the 2025 NRL grand final! Australia has always been a second home to me. Every time I am there I am overwhelmed by how welcoming the people are, I fall more in love with the culture, and just everything about it. So, to be welcomed to perform one of the biggest nights in Australia is a huge honour.”
Implications for the Grand Final
As Melbourne and Brisbane prepare to face off in the 2025 NRL premiership, the uncertainty surrounding Swims’ performance adds an unexpected layer of tension to the event. The grand final is not only a significant sporting event but also a cultural spectacle, with the pre-game entertainment playing a crucial role in setting the tone.
Meanwhile, fans and league officials alike are hopeful for Swims’ recovery. His performance is highly anticipated, and any changes could impact the overall experience of the grand final.
Looking Ahead
The NRL’s commitment to providing top-tier entertainment reflects its broader strategy to enhance fan engagement and elevate the league’s profile. The choice of Teddy Swims, a globally recognized artist, underscores this approach. However, the current situation highlights the unpredictable nature of live events and the need for contingency planning.
As the countdown to the grand final continues, all eyes will be on Swims’ health updates. The league remains optimistic, but should a change be necessary, it will be crucial to ensure that the alternative entertainment maintains the event’s high standards.
The NRL grand final promises to be a thrilling showdown between Melbourne and Brisbane, and regardless of the entertainment lineup, the focus will ultimately return to the players and the game itself.
