do a Melba

do a Melba

To continue to do something after announcing one's plans to stop or retire. The phrase refers to Australian singer Nellie Melba, who performed several "final" concerts. Primarily heard in Australia. A: "I thought Susie was going to retire last month." B: "Nope, she's done a Melba!"
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

do a Melba

AUSTRALIAN
If someone does a Melba, they tell people that they are leaving their job or giving their last performance, and then, in fact, they continue. We all believed that Neil was stepping down, but he did a Melba and carried on. Note: This expression comes from the Australian singer Dame Nellie Melba, who did several concerts that she said would be her last.
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed.

do a Melba

1 return from retirement. 2 make several farewell appearances. Australian & New Zealand informal
The Australian operatic soprano Nellie Melba (the stage name of Helen Mitchell , 1861–1931 ) made repeated ‘farewell’ appearances.
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
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