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American rapper and singer-songwriter MGK rocked Winnipeg’s Princess Auto Stadium during the Grey Cup halftime show on Sunday.
Flanked by a backing band and CFL cheerleaders, the singer formerly known as Machine Gun Kelly performed a medley of his hits, including Don’t Wait Run Fast off his latest album, released earlier this year.
The crowd greeted MGK by illuminating their phones, creating a sea of lights.
MGK wore a football jersey during his performance, though not supporting either the Saskatchewan Roughriders or Montreal Alouettes, who were playing in the game.
He thanked the crowd for letting him and his band perform during the 112th championship game.
The game started with a pre-show from Canadian rock group Our Lady Peace, who sang three songs; the national anthem was sung by Manitoba country singer Catie St. Germain.
Prime Minister Mark Carney was also on hand in Winnipeg for the game. Carney performed the customary coin toss at centre field at the start of the game to determine which team chooses the first move.
The prime minister was met with booing and expletive-filled shouting from some football fans in the stands at Princess Auto Stadium.
He smiled, waved and took some photos with game attendees.
Prior to the game starting, fans — many outfitted in Rider green — took part in a tailgate party outside the stadium.
By the end of the game, the Saskatchewan Roughriders’ had won their first Grey Cup in 12 years, beating the Montreal Alouettes 25-17. Green confetti rained down on the field at Winnipeg’s Princess Auto Stadium, and green-and-white clad fans spilled out onto the street.
It was the Roughriders’ fifth Grey Cup title and the first since winning in 2013 in Regina.
