Teddy Swims Scores Widespread Praise at 2025 NRL Grand Final Pre-Show

American soul singer Teddy Swims delivered a powerful and soulful performance at the 2025 NRL Grand Final pre-show, captivating a crowd of 80,000 at Accor Stadium with hits like “Bad Dreams” and “Lose Control,” as well as a tribute to Australian rock legends AC/DC with a cover of “T.N.T.” Despite recent vocal issues that forced him to cancel shows in Hawaii, Swims recovered and was determined to perform, earning praise for his vocal strength and stage presence. Fans were divided on his performance, with many praising him as one of the best Grand Final entertainers in years and even favoring his show over Snoop Dogg’s recent AFL Grand Final set, while others were less impressed and expressed a preference for different acts. Swims' blend of soul, country, and pop, along with his heartfelt homage to AC/DC, resonated with a broad audience and marked a significant moment at one of Australia’s biggest sporting events. The NRL highlighted Swims' universal appeal and the cultural significance of performing near the hometown of AC/DC’s Angus and Malcolm Young.