American rapper Snoop Dogg has reportedly made an unexpected demand ahead of his highly anticipated AFL Grand Final performance at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) this Saturday, sparking budget concerns among event organisers.
According to Ross Stevenson on 3AW’s Rumour File, the 53-year-old artist requested that a full replica of the Grand Final stage be constructed at Marvel Stadium for private rehearsals prior to the official run-through at the MCG. “There has been a slight budgetary issue... because he has demanded that a replica of the stage be built at Marvel Stadium,” Stevenson said, adding that rehearsals were expected to take place either Wednesday or Thursday. “I’m quite impressed by the fact that he wants to get it right... but it wasn’t in the budget.”
Photos have since emerged showing staging being set up at Marvel Stadium, seemingly confirming the reports of early rehearsals.
Snoop Dogg is reportedly receiving $5 million for his headline appearance, according to Fox Sports, placing him alongside previous Grand Final performers such as Katy Perry and Robbie Williams. However, his appearance has not been without controversy. The rapper has recently faced backlash over comments perceived as anti-LGBTQ+, prompting concerns about the AFL's decision to feature him at the flagship event.
Critics have accused the league of hypocrisy, especially after the AFL suspended Adelaide forward Izak Rankine for four matches over a homophobic slur made in August.
Snoop Dogg arrived in Melbourne on Tuesday and was seen at the MCG with Collingwood stars Nick and Josh Daicos.
In a video shared by the AFL, the rapper successfully kicked a goal from 35 metres, exclaiming: “That’s six points, baby!” to the delight of the Daicos brothers.
The AFL Grand Final between Brisbane and Geelong kicks off Saturday afternoon at the MCG.
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