If it seems like bombastic bad boy of British pop Robbie Williams has been popping up everywhere in the news lately, it’s because he has. The ‘Angels’ singer is deep in the promo tour for his Better Man biopic where he’s portrayed via a CGI chimp, which Time Out’s critic says leaves lauded flicks like Rocketman and Bohemian Rhapsody in the dust.
After headlining New Year’s Eve at the Sydney Opera House, Williams is taking the whole popping up thing literally today, with a surprise gig at Melbourne’s Fed Square just announced.
Premier Jacinta Allan published a simple yet mysterious tweet announcing the gig, which read “Robbie Williams. Fed Square. Tomorrow. 5pm. For free.”
The event will go for around an hour, including a short set of Williams’ hits and a Q&A session. In a move we didn’t have on our 2025 bingo card, Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece will also present Williams with the keys to the city. Why? Better Man was created primarily in Melbourne at locations including Rod Laver Arena, University of Melbourne and even the Melbourne Town Hall – meaning it had a pretty big positive impact on the local film industry and economy.
The film was also directed and co-written by Michael Gracey, a Victorian filmmaker, and shot in Docklands Studios with backing from the state government.
Anyone can rock up to secure a spot to see the star IRL for free, and we’re expecting that competition for a good view will be fierce. Organisers say the best way to enter Fed Square is through Swanston Street and crowd control measures will be in place. Let’s all bring a big water bottle and agree to be well-behaved! This is an all-ages event, so don’t show up with any sneaky bevs.
One final PSA: if you’re driving through the city today, note that there’ll be road closures from 3-7pm between Russell and Elizabeth Streets and Flinders Street to Princes Bridge – but trains and trams will still run as normal. Check the Fed Square website before you head down for more details.
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