Music legend Robbie Williams took center stage on New Year’s Eve, thrilling audiences as they welcomed 2025 with his high-energy performance at Sydney’s iconic fireworks display. The British pop star was the star attraction for what has become one of the most anticipated events of the year, delivering hits like “Let Me Entertain You,” “Feel,” and concluding with his beloved ballad “Angels.”
Performing against the breathtaking backdrop of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, Williams engaged with the crowd and even threw in some cheeky moments. During one song, “Me And My Monkey,” he humorously interacted with fans when they began singing along, jesting, “You made me come in, in the wrong place! Can you stop doing the lyrics to the song, then I don’t get it wrong?” Such quips only added to the festive atmosphere, showing why he remains one of Britain's most beloved entertainers.
Williams was not merely there to perform; he also took the opportunity to promote his new biopic, “Better Man,” directed by Australian filmmaker Michael Gracey. During his set, he announced, “Some critics are calling it the movie of the century! Not my words, except they are because I just made those up.” His playful insert of movie promotion within his performance sparked mixed reactions from viewers, with some enjoying the humor and others believing it detracted from the spirit of the celebration.
The biopic, which has recently premiered to significant acclaim, received six nominations at the 2025 AACTA Awards, including Best Film and Best Director. Notably, Jonno Davies, who portrays Williams as a chimp, has also been recognized for his role with the Best Lead Actor nomination. The film, which debuted on December 26, incorporates classic elements of Williams' life, promising to be both entertaining and provocative.
Post-performance, Williams made headlines again with his appearance on The Graham Norton Show, which he filmed earlier due to pre-recording. Viewers watched as he appeared on stage, not realizing the broadcast was pre-recorded, leading to misunderstandings about how he could plausible be performing live first and then be interviewing on the UK-based show shortly thereafter. Social media buzzed with comments as users grappled with the concept of time zones and broadcast schedules.
“Hang on, Robbie’s on #GrahamNorton right now but BBC News showed him counting down to the New Year in Sydney… You can’t believe anything, can you?” one viewer remarked on X, highlighting the confusion. Others expressed astonishment and their disbelief at how he managed to ‘dash across the world’ so quickly, forgetting the logistical realities of broadcasting and pre-recording.
During his appearance on The Graham Norton Show, Williams continued to discuss “Better Man,” explaining its unique premise wherein he is depicted as a CGI chimp, flipping the traditional biopic format on its head. He quipped, “When I heard everyone else would be human, and I would be a monkey, I thought, ‘Yes! This is incredible!’ It’s eccentric and definitely different.” His self-deprecatory humor shone through, as he reflected on the unconventional direction the film has taken.
While some viewers of his Sydney performance celebrated Williams' engaging style and humor, others were less than pleased, questioning the appropriateness of using public funds for his promotional tie-in with his film during what was supposed to be a celebratory performance. Criticism flooded social media, with some spectators expressing sentiment about tax dollars being used for what they saw as a lackluster performance focused on self-promotion rather than entertainment. “Did my tax dollars pay for this lazy Robbie Williams set? PR for a movie during a set as well?” one viewer questioned.
Yet, amid the noise, Williams also garnered support from fans who recognized the significance of his performance and the presence of his biopic. They argued against the complaints, advocating for the talent and entertainment value he brings, with one commenting, “No one entertains like Robbie Williams - NO ONE!” His ability to combine humor and talent keeps him relevant, connecting with both die-hard fans and curious onlookers alike.
Reflecting on the night’s events, it seems Robbie Williams remains as much of an enigma as he is established artist. His blend of cheeky humor, deep-rooted showmanship, and unabashed self-promotion has once again put him firmly in the spotlight, leaving audiences divided but undeniably entertained. With numerous accolades for his new film and memorable performances, it appears the New Year is shaping up to be another groundbreaking year for the pop superstar.