A devoted Pink fan was left in shock after discovering that they would have to shell out a staggering $180 for their newborn baby to attend one of the pop star’s concerts. The revelation has sparked outrage online, with fans calling it an absurd and unjust policy.
Concert tickets are notoriously pricey, often requiring fans to dig deep into their pockets to see their favorite artists perform live. While the experience is undoubtedly exhilarating, unexpected additional costs can sometimes make the event far less enjoyable.
This was the unfortunate reality for a fan in Sydney, Australia, who had been eagerly looking forward to Pink’s concert. However, when they inquired about bringing their infant along, they were met with an astonishing requirement—every single attendee, regardless of age, needed a ticket. The newborn, who would be nestled safely in a baby carrier, was not exempt from the rule, leaving the fan—and later, the internet—completely outraged.
Public Backlash Over the Shocking Policy
As soon as the story surfaced, it ignited a fiery debate online, with social media users criticizing the policy as nothing more than a blatant attempt to squeeze extra money from concertgoers.
One frustrated fan wrote, “What’s next? Will they start charging pregnant women for their unborn babies?”
Another commenter didn’t hold back, adding, “This is a disgusting cash grab. Absolutely ridiculous.”
However, amid the outrage, some people raised concerns about the suitability of a loud and crowded concert for a newborn’s delicate ears. One person suggested that if babies must attend concerts, the ticket price should include high-quality ear protection. “It’s crazy to think bringing a newborn to a concert is a good idea,” they noted.
Others pointed out that this wasn’t just a policy unique to Pink’s concerts. One commenter explained, “That’s just how things are at many venues in Australia. I worked on Robbie Williams’ tickets, and it was the same deal—no matter the age, every person needed a ticket.”
Pink’s Worldwide Fame and The High Demand for Her Concerts
The controversy surrounding this incident is only amplified by Pink’s immense global popularity. Born Alecia Beth Moore Hart, the Grammy-winning artist has sold over 135 million records worldwide, cementing her status as one of the most successful musicians of all time.
With such an impressive career, it’s no surprise that Pink’s live performances are in high demand. Her energetic concerts, complete with high-flying acrobatics and powerhouse vocals, are often considered bucket-list experiences for fans.
The So What singer embarked on her Summer Carnival world tour, which kicked off in Australia before moving across various international locations. However, one of the most highly anticipated concerts took place at Sydney’s Accor Stadium, where this unexpected ticketing drama unfolded.
The Fan’s Disappointment: A Sudden and Costly Surprise
The fan in question, along with their partner, had bought their tickets well in advance in early 2023. However, life took an exciting turn when they welcomed their baby into the world shortly before the concert date.
Rather than going through the hassle of arranging childcare, the couple decided they would bring their newborn along. Wanting to ensure a smooth experience, they reached out to the venue to ask about bringing a diaper bag and whether their baby would need a ticket.
Their inquiry read: “Can you confirm if we’re allowed to bring a nappy bag? Also, just making sure our baby won’t need a ticket?”
To their dismay, the stadium’s response was both unexpected and frustrating.
“There is no issue bringing a nappy bag, but all attendees must have a ticket to enter, regardless of age.”
The fan was stunned by the answer, arguing that the newborn wouldn’t even occupy a seat and would either be carried in a baby sling or held by a family member.
Adding to their frustration, the concert was completely sold out, making it even more difficult to purchase an additional ticket.
However, the venue remained firm on its policy, stating: “This is the age policy set for the show by the promoter.”
Outrage Leads to a Policy Reversal
Feeling unfairly treated, the frustrated fan expressed their anger in an interview, saying: “We found it disgraceful that a baby had to pay for a ticket when they were simply going to be in a carrier or on my sister’s chest.”
The backlash against the venue’s policy quickly gained traction, with more people calling out the unreasonable rule. As the story spread and public criticism mounted, the stadium finally reconsidered its stance.
In a surprising turn of events, Accor Stadium retracted the ticketing requirement for the newborn. Not only did they waive the $180 charge, but they also offered the family complimentary parking near the venue’s entrance—a small but meaningful gesture to amend the situation.
Though the resolution came as a relief for the family, the incident left many questioning the fairness of similar ticketing policies in the entertainment industry. With concert prices already at an all-time high, the idea of charging for infants who don’t require a seat seems increasingly difficult for fans to justify.