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Paul McCartney paid just $2 for Olympics opening

Published: 8:48PM Tuesday July 31, 2012 Source: BANG Showbiz

  • Former Beatle Paul McCartney sings during the opening ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games at the Olympic Stadium July  (Source: Reuters)
    Former Beatle Paul McCartney sings during the opening ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games at the Olympic Stadium July - Source: Reuters

Sir Paul McCartney was paid less than $2 to appear at the Olympics opening ceremony.

The Beatles singer closed the spectacular event, which kicked off the games in London last Friday - but was given only a token fee for his appearance.

He was paid just £1 - the equivalent to around $1.90.

Paul, who played tracks The End and Hey Jude on the night, said he didn't mind waiving his usual fee, particularly as he would receive tickets for the Games as a thank you from the Olympic committee.

"They don't pay you to perform, but what does happen is you get tickets to events, so they asked me what I would ideally like to go to, and so I sent a little list," he said.

"I'm a big fan of athletics, when that's on the TV, I don't go out, so the Olympic Games are great for that for me."

Many of the other acts who performed at the event - such as Dizzee Rascal, Arctic Monkeys, Frank Turner, Emeli Sande and Mike Oldfield - were also thought to have only been paid the nominal fee, required for contractual purposes.

Many of the actors, dancers and performers who appeared at the ceremony also volunteered their services for free.

Tickets prices for seats at the much-anticipated opening ceremony cost up to £2012 ($3899).

Speaking after his performance of Bonkers at the event, Dizzee - who was brought up near to the Stratford stadium where the opening ceremony took place - said: "It is a good time for the UK and I am glad they asked me to perform one of my greatest tracks to represent the country.

"Huge respect to all the athletes who are taking part and let's get the party started."

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