Cody Simpson Set to Perform National Anthem at First-Ever NFL Game in Australia
Singer Cody Simpson will sing "Advance Australia Fair" before the Los Angeles Rams vs. San Francisco 49ers game at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, which is expected to draw over 100,000 fans. He admitted to feeling nervous about performing at the iconic venue but noted he has previously sung the anthem at major events like the AFL Grand Final and the Melbourne Cup. Simpson, who moved to Los Angeles at 13, expressed excitement about being part of the historic first regular-season NFL game on Australian soil.
Simpson has previously sung the national anthem at the AFL Grand Final, the Melbourne Cup, and an NBA matchup. His athletic resume includes Commonwealth Games gold and silver in 2022, while his music career features a top-10 Billboard 200 album.
Relocating to Los Angeles at 13 to sign a record deal, he considers this Melbourne game a meaningful homecoming. He described the NFL event as a novelty and praised the Jonas Brothers for their halftime role.
This performance could serve as a cultural bridge, potentially introducing Australian audiences to American football through a familiar local celebrity. It may also boost the NFL's international expansion efforts, while giving Simpson a platform to showcase his dual identity as a musician and athlete. The massive expected crowd could reinforce Melbourne's status as a global sports hub, and the event might inspire similar cross-cultural entertainment collaborations in the future.