The AFL is reportedly planning to shift the Grand Final to a twilight timeslot for the first time this year, with Kylie Minogue targeted as the headline halftime performer. According to Channel 7's Caroline Wilson, the league is moving away from the traditional 2:30pm start and pre-match entertainment, instead adopting a Super Bowl-style halftime show under lights.
Wilson stated on The Agenda Setters that she would be shocked if the 2024 Grand Final is not a twilight event. The AFL is strongly targeting Minogue, who was previously approached for the 2023 Grand Final before the league opted for US rock band KISS. The change aims to boost audience engagement during the break and attract casual viewers, younger demographics, and non-sports fans.
AFL CEO Andrew Dillon, previously a key advocate for the afternoon timeslot, is reportedly wavering. The new chairman is also said to be open to the idea, with most of the AFL executive keen on the twilight format. The league may extend halftime to accommodate the performance in darkness, though options include a daytime performer with the main act at twilight.
If confirmed, Minogue would be the first Australian act to perform at the Grand Final since Eskimo Joe in 2021, when the match was held in Perth. Since returning to the MCG, the AFL has featured international artists including Robbie Williams, Kiss, Katy Perry, and Snoop Dogg.
