Robbie Williams rocks Melbourne with surprise concert

Global music icon Robbie Williams delighted Melbourne fans with a surprise pop-up performance at Federation Square on January 2, celebrating the release of his new biographical film, Better Man.

In recognition of his outstanding career as a global entertainer and his love for the city, Lord Mayor Nick Reece presented Mr Williams with the key to Melbourne - a prestigious honour given to only 40 individuals in the city’s history.

The key to the city is awarded to those who have made significant contributions to Melbourne, whether through cultural, humanitarian, or sporting achievements, on a national or international scale.

Past recipients of this honour nclude names like Olivia Newton-John, Elisabeth Murdoch, Dolly Parton, Muhammad Ali, Dame Edna Everage, Lou Richards, and most recently, the Mayor of Osaka, Hirofumi Yoshimura.

“There’s no better man to have a key to our city than legendary British pop singer Robbie Williams,” Cr Reece said.

After receiving the key, Williams treated over 12,000 fans to a free concert at the iconic public space.

Mr Williams appearance in Melbourne is linked to the production of Better Man, which saw much of the film shot in Melbourne and across Victoria.

The production has had a significant economic impact, creating nearly 3,000 jobs and contributing $142 million to the state’s economy.

Better Man explores the rise, fall, and dramatic comeback of Williams, a British pop legend and one of the most celebrated entertainers in the world. The film is currently in theaters and was supported by funding from the Victorian Government through VicScreen.

Iconic Victorian landmarks featured in the movie include Rod Laver Arena, the Intercontinental Melbourne hotel, Cruden Farm in Langwarrin, and the Fawkner Bowls Club.

“Melbourne is an incredible backdrop to blockbusters and a world-class location for editing and cinematic technology – thanks to Docklands Studio Melbourne and the investment of the Victorian Government through VicScreen,” Cr Reece said.

“From one Carlton tragic to another, I can’t wait to share the stage with Robbie and create yet another iconic Melbourne moment for all of us to cherish.”