Parramatta young gun Isaiah Iongi has signed a long-term deal to remain with the Eels as the club looks to rebuild around a promising core.

Already signed through to 2027, the fullback has been locked in for a further three years on a deal that takes him through to the end of 2030.

Iongi was one of the bright spots in a rebuilding year for the Eels and quickly made the fullback jumper his own.

Now, the Eels are hoping the 22-year-old helps Parramatta challenge for a title in the coming years.

“With his positive mindset, strong work ethic and desire to improve, we see him as a long-term leader at the Eels,” Eels GM of Football Mark O’Neill said.

“Jason, the coaches and the rest of the club are incredibly excited to see him continue to evolve over the coming years.”

Former Cowboy Karl Lawton has signed a three-year deal with Super League champions Hull KR.

The 30-year-old was released by North Queensland after one season with the club following previous stints at the Titans, Warriors and Sea Eagles.

“I’m pumped, I can’t wait to start,” Lawton told the Hull KR website. “Hull KR are a successful club with a great reputation. Everyone that’s spoke about the club that’s been there in the past has loved it.”

The Bears have also continued their roster build, with Liam Henry and Iszac Fa’asuamaleaui signing on for their club’s inaugural season in 2027.

Henry has penned a long-term deal, with the Panther signing a four-year contract that takes him through to 2030.

“This is another proud day for the Perth Bears,” coach Mal Meninga said.

“Liam is one of the most exciting middle forward prospects in the NRL and I am ecstatic to have him as part of our inaugural roster.

“Iszac is a versatile and athletic forward who will look to continue his development with Catalans next season before coming to Perth for 2027.

“Both players have their best footy in front of them and I have no doubt will make an immediate impact with the Bears.”

The Roosters have granted emerging

forward Xavier Va’a an immediate release, with the youngster reportedly linked to a move to the Super League.

The Bulldogs have held off rival clubs to lock down star forward Viliame Kikau through to the end of the 2028 season.

The Fijian powerhouse was initially contracted for the 2026 campaign and was in high demand before signing a two-year extension to remain at Canterbury.

Kikau has played a key role in the club’s rise to a premiership contender and is desperate to help the Bulldogs win their first title since 2004.

“I’m very happy to be staying at the Bulldogs,” he said.

“This club has embraced my family and I since day one so it was an easy decision to re-sign.

“I love being part of what we’re building here. We’ve made great progress over the past couple of years, but we want to achieve more – I want to help this club win its next premiership.”

The Roosters have announced the signing of Sea Eagles flyer Reuben Garrick on a three-year deal commencing in 2027.

Garrick has played 157 games and scored 1340 points for Manly since making his NRL debut in 2019.

The 28-year-old will see out the final season of his contract with the Sea Eagles before joining the Roosters for the 2027 campaign.

Former Knight Jack Hetherington is set to fill the void left by the injured Eli Katoa after signing a one-year deal with the Storm.

Katoa is set to sit out the 2026 season after suffering an injury during the Pacific Championships, with Hetherington providing physicality and experience up front.

The contract is one of three the Storm have announced, with Trent Toelau and Manaia Waitere also signing with Melbourne.

Toelau has signed a one-year deal, while Waitere moves to Melbourne from the Raiders on a two-year contract.

Toelau started his career in the Storm pathway before moving to Penrith and making his NRL debut in 2024. An emerging playmaker, the 26-year-old is set to learn from Jahrome Hughes and Cam Munster.

“Jack, Trent and Manaia each bring their own strengths to our group, and we’re excited for what they can offer both in the short-term and into next season,” Storm football boss Frank Ponissi said.

“Jack provides proven NRL experience, while Trent and Manaia are young players with impressive talent. We believe all three will thrive in our environment, and we’re thrilled to welcome them to our Storm family.”

The Storm have also announced the signing of backrower Oryn Keeley on a two-year deal from the start of the 2027 season.

A Central Coast junior, Keeley developed through the Newcastle Knights pathway, making his NRL debut for the Knights in 2022. Keeley joined the Dolphins in 2024, where he continued his development and enjoyed a strong 2025 season.

“We believe Oryn will thrive in our system and become an important member of our forward pack in the years ahead,” Storm Director of Football Frank Ponissi said.

Boom halfback Coby Black has been granted an immediate release from the Broncos to join Canberra Raiders on a three-year deal.

Black, who earlier this year captained Queensland Under 19s, has been a part of the Broncos system from a young age and has been developing as a halfback under the guidance of Adam Reynolds.

He played 16 games for the Souths Logan Magpies in the 2025 Queensland Cup season where he scored six tries and produced eight try assists, nine line-break assists and 11 offloads.

Broncos coach Michael Maguire said Black will be very much missed at Red Hill.

“We would have loved to have Coby here at the Broncos for 2026, but we acknowledge the opportunity that’s been presented to him,” Maguire said.

“He’s a fantastic young man who’s been an absolute pleasure to coach and I truly hope our paths cross in the future.”

Raiders recruitment manager, Chris Hutchison, said the club is excited to welcome Black to the Raiders.

“Coby is a great young player and we’re very excited to welcome him to Canberra this season and continue his development at the Raiders,” he said.

“He has shown strong ability already, progressing through the ranks to debut in Queensland Cup at the age of 18.”

North Queensland have signed veteran front-rower Matthew Lodge for the 2026 season.

The 30-year-old has appeared in 133 NRL games over the course of a 10-year career with Wests Tigers, Brisbane, the Warriors, Roosters and Sea Eagles.

Lodge adds significant depth and experience to a Cowboys forward pack, which will be without injured internationals Jeremiah Nanai and Griffin Neame to start the 2026 season.

Netflix has become a powerhouse when it comes to music documentaries, telling the stories of artists who shaped their generations while opening the door to a more personal side of fame. Now, the streaming giant is turning its lens toward one of the most unique and outspoken voices of modern rock: YUNGBLUD. Their upcoming documentary, titled “The Lead Singer Legend,” is officially set to premiere soon, and the trailer alone has already sparked waves of anticipation across the globe.

This documentary promises more than a recap of chart hits or flashy tour footage. Instead, it dives deep into the journey of Dominic Harrison—the boy from Doncaster who reinvented himself as YUNGBLUD, a rebel musician who broke rules, challenged norms, and gave millions of fans the courage to be unapologetically themselves.

Below is a comprehensive preview of what fans can expect from The Lead Singer Legend, the significance of Netflix choosing YUNGBLUD for its latest music project, and how this film might cement his legacy as not just a rock star, but as a generational voice.

The Announcement

Netflix announced The Lead Singer Legend with a striking teaser clip: YUNGBLUD sprinting across a stage in front of tens of thousands of fans, his voice cracking as he screams, “This is our culture!” The teaser closes with him staring straight into the camera, eyeliner smeared, saying:

“You don’t need to fit in. You just need to belong to yourself. That’s the real legend.”

The announcement instantly set social media ablaze. Within hours, hashtags like #TheLeadSingerLegend and #NetflixYUNGBLUD trended worldwide. Fans celebrated the chance to finally see an in-depth story of the man behind the chaos, while critics admitted curiosity about what the film might reveal about one of rock’s most polarizing young figures.

The Core Story

The Lead Singer Legend follows YUNGBLUD’s life from his working-class roots in Doncaster, England, to his rise as an international star. But the focus isn’t just on his career milestones—it’s on the struggles, triumphs, and contradictions of living a life that is both public and painfully personal.

1. Childhood and Early Influences

The film reportedly begins with never-before-seen home videos: a young Dominic Harrison strumming guitars, singing Beatles covers, and even rebelling in school. His father, who ran a guitar shop, and his mother, who encouraged creativity, play key roles in shaping his passion.

2. Becoming YUNGBLUD

The documentary explores the transformation from Dominic Harrison into YUNGBLUD. This wasn’t just about a stage name—it was about creating an identity that carried rebellion, inclusivity, and defiance at its core. YUNGBLUD became more than a musician; he became a symbol for misfits and outsiders worldwide.

3. Breakthrough and Backlash

The film dives into his early singles like “I Love You, Will You Marry Me” and “Medication,” which gained traction for their sharp social commentary. It also addresses the skepticism he faced from traditional rock critics who dismissed him as “too loud, too fast, too chaotic.”

4. The Fanbase: The Black Hearts Club

No YUNGBLUD documentary would be complete without focusing on his fans. Known as The Black Hearts Club, they are more than a fanbase—they are a community built on acceptance, rebellion, and family. The film includes testimonials from fans who describe how YUNGBLUD’s music helped them survive depression, bullying, and feelings of isolation.

5. Vulnerability and Mental Health

Perhaps the most important thread running through the documentary is YUNGBLUD’s vulnerability. Behind the screaming crowds and bold outfits lies a young man who has openly spoken about anxiety, mental health struggles, and the loneliness of fame. Netflix has teased raw diary-style footage of him breaking down backstage, showing the human behind the performer.

Themes Explored

The documentary doesn’t shy away from bold themes that have defined YUNGBLUD’s career:

• Identity and Rebellion: How rejecting conformity became central to his art.
• Youth Culture: His role as a generational voice for those who feel silenced.
• Love and Relationships: Both the highs and the heartbreaks of loving in the spotlight.
• Art as Activism: From LGBTQ+ rights to mental health advocacy, YUNGBLUD’s music has always been tied to social change.
• The Duality of Fame: The cost of being idolized and hated simultaneously.

The Netflix Touch

What makes The Lead Singer Legend particularly intriguing is Netflix’s ability to craft cinematic music documentaries that feel intimate yet epic. From the sweeping concert visuals to whispered confessions in hotel rooms, fans can expect a rollercoaster of emotions that mirrors YUNGBLUD’s chaotic energy.

Insiders report that the film will balance high-octane performances—think mosh pits, rainbow flags, and fire-filled stages—with quiet vulnerability—a shot of YUNGBLUD scribbling lyrics in a notebook, or staring out of a plane window between tours.

Fan Reactions

Fans’ emotional responses to the announcement highlight just how much this documentary means:

• “I’ve been waiting for this for years. He saved my life, now the world will finally see why.”
• “The Black Hearts Club isn’t just a fandom. This documentary is OUR story too.”
• “People who don’t get him will finally understand what makes YUNGBLUD a legend.”

Some skeptics, however, question whether the film will portray YUNGBLUD as authentic or lean too heavily into mythmaking. Yet even critics agree the story of a young artist defying tradition is one worth telling.

Why “The Lead Singer Legend”?

The title itself is significant. It nods not only to YUNGBLUD’s role as a frontman but to his symbolic status as a “legend” to his fans—not because of chart numbers or critical acclaim, but because of the way he made them feel seen.

It’s a reclamation of the term “legend,” not as someone untouchable or perfect, but as someone who dared to live truthfully in front of the world.

What to Expect

• Exclusive Interviews: With family, bandmates, Sharon and Ozzy Osbourne (longtime supporters), and fans from across the world.
• Unseen Footage: From his earliest gigs in tiny clubs to sold-out arenas.
• Raw Honesty: YUNGBLUD himself narrates parts of the film, sharing his darkest fears and proudest victories.
• Cultural Commentary: Musicians, critics, and activists weigh in on his influence on youth culture.

Conclusion: A Defining Moment

The Lead Singer Legend is more than a documentary; it’s a cultural statement. It captures the chaos and tenderness that define YUNGBLUD while cementing his place in the lineage of rock disruptors. It tells the story of a kid from Doncaster who shouted until the world listened—and in doing so, created a community where no one has to scream alone anymore.

On September 7, 2025, Dan Reynolds, the charismatic frontman of Imagine Dragons, turned 38. But instead of celebrating with cake and candles, the day was marked by a bombshell: Reynolds announced his divorce from Aja Volkman, his wife of over a decade. Fans were left reeling, flooding social media with disbelief and questions. What led to this sudden split? Was it really as abrupt as it seemed? Let’s dive into the details and uncover what might have happened behind the scenes.

A Love Story That Captivated Fans

Dan Reynolds and Aja Volkman’s relationship was a fan-favorite fairy tale. The couple met in 2010 when Volkman’s band, Nico Vega, opened for Imagine Dragons. Their chemistry was undeniable, leading to a whirlwind romance and marriage in 2011. Together, they welcomed four children—Arrow, Gia, Coco, and Valentine—and often shared glimpses of their family life, endearing them to fans. Their creative synergy also shone through in collaborations like Volkman’s contributions to Imagine Dragons’ music and their joint project, Egyptian.

But beneath the surface, their relationship wasn’t always smooth. In 2018, the couple announced a separation, only to reconcile in 2019, sparking hope among fans that their love story was back on track. So, when news of their divorce broke on Reynolds’ 38th birthday, it hit like a thunderbolt.

The Birthday Bombshell

The timing of the announcement raised eyebrows. Why reveal such a personal decision on a day meant for celebration? According to sources close to the couple, the divorce had been in the works for months, with legal proceedings quietly initiated earlier in 2025. The choice to announce it on Reynolds’ birthday wasn’t intentional drama but rather a logistical necessity, as court documents reportedly became public that day. Still, the optics were jarring, and fans on platforms like X speculated wildly, with some calling it “the ultimate birthday plot twist.”

What Went Wrong?

While neither Reynolds nor Volkman has shared explicit details, those close to them suggest a mix of factors contributed to the split. The pressures of fame, relentless touring schedules, and the demands of raising four young children likely strained their relationship. Reynolds has been open about his struggles with mental health, including depression and anxiety, which he’s channeled into his music. Volkman, too, has pursued her own creative projects, balancing motherhood with her career. These competing priorities may have created distance over time.

Insiders also hint at differing visions for the future. Reynolds’ commitment to Imagine Dragons’ global success meant long periods apart, while Volkman focused on her solo music and personal growth. Posts on X from fans point to subtle clues in Volkman’s recent lyrics, which touch on themes of independence and self-discovery, suggesting she was ready for a new chapter.

The Truth Behind the Scenes

Despite the shock, those in the know emphasize that the divorce was amicable. Both Reynolds and Volkman are reportedly prioritizing co-parenting their children and maintaining mutual respect. There’s no evidence of scandal or betrayal—just two people who grew apart under the weight of their demanding lives. A source quoted in a recent entertainment article noted, “Dan and Aja still care deeply for each other, but they’ve realized they’re better as friends and parents than as partners.”

Reynolds’ faith as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints may have also played a role. He’s spoken in the past about wrestling with aspects of his upbringing, and some speculate that personal evolution in his beliefs created tension with Volkman, though this remains unconfirmed.

Fans’ Reactions and What’s Next

The announcement sent shockwaves through the Imagine Dragons fandom. On X, posts ranged from heartbroken (“Dan and Aja were my OTP, this hurts”) to supportive (“Wishing them both healing and happiness”). Some fans even theorized that Reynolds’ next album might channel this pain into raw, emotional tracks, much like Smoke + Mirrors reflected his earlier struggles.

As for what’s next, Reynolds is reportedly throwing himself into music, with Imagine Dragons teasing a new project for 2026. Volkman, meanwhile, is working on her solo career, with a single slated for release later this year. Both seem focused on their children and creative outlets, signaling a commitment to moving forward gracefully.

The Takeaway

Dan Reynolds’ divorce on his 38th birthday was a gut-punch for fans, but the truth behind the scenes is less about drama and more about two people navigating life’s complexities. While the timing amplified the shock, it’s clear this decision was thoughtful and mutual. As Reynolds himself once sang, “It’s time to begin, isn’t it?” For both him and Volkman, this divorce marks not an end, but a new beginning.

What do you think about this surprising turn of events? Share your thoughts, and let’s keep the conversation going.