John Farnham ‘deeply touched’ by Robbie Williams’ AFL dedication

Australian music legend John Farnham was watching from hospital when Robbie Williams paid tribute to him at the AFL Grand Final.

Robbie Williams and Delta Goodrem perform during the 2022 AFL Grand Final. Picture: Daniel Pockett/AFL Photos/via Getty Images

Australian music legend John Farnham was “deeply touched” by singer Robbie Williams’ spectacular AFL dedication at the MCG.

Ahead of the Geelong versus Sydney showdown, Williams took to the stage and delivered a memorable 20-minute performance which included the iconic song You’re the Voice.

“The next song is the unofficial national anthem of Australia,” Williams told the crowd. “Let’s all send our love to John and his family.”

The enthusiastic audience joined in, singing their mightiest.

“We were delighted to see Robbie Williams dedicate his performance of You’re The Voice to John,” a statement from Farnham’s wife Jill and sons Rob and James said.

“John was watching from hospital and was deeply touched by that very generous gesture. He thoroughly enjoyed Robbie’s performance too.”

One month on from his gruelling 12-hour mouth cancer surgery, this week Farnham was transferred into a rehabilitation facility where his recovery is “progressing well”.

John Farnham performed during Fire Fight Australia at ANZ Stadium on February 16, 2020 in Sydney.

Williams also posted on social media that he became “emotional” while singing Farnham’s song along with 100,000 people.

Williams said he got emotional. Picture: Dylan Burns/AFL Photos via Getty Images

Clad in bright pink, the epic performance featured bagpipes, flames and exactly you would expect from a legendary world-class performer.

“I’m going to be phenomenal, so you better be good,” he told the crowd.

2022 AFL Grand Final between the Geelong Cats and Sydney Swans at the MCG. Picture: David Caird

Williams performed with Delta Goodrem and also dedicated a song to the late cricketer Shane Warne.

“This next song is dedicated to one of Australia’s greatest rock stars, Shane Warne. Love you, Warnie,’’ Williams said.

He turned heads. Picture: Quinn Rooney/Getty Images

There was speculation ahead of the pre-game entertainment but as soon as Williams’ performance kicked off, the visitors to the MCG were off their seats and viewers at homes appeared just as impressed.

“Give Robbie Williams the Norm Smith medal now, best grand final entertainment in years,” said one Twitter user.

“That was sensational,” said another.

Viewers loved the show. Picture: David Caird

The reaction from those who tuned into the show before the first bounce was almost unanimous as fans took to social media to request Williams perform at the Grand Final each year.