The Super Bowl LIX halftime show has ignited debate among fans, with reactions ranging from excitement to disappointment.
While some celebrate the headliner choice, others feel differently, including a Louisiana music icon who was notably left out.
Set to take place on February 9 at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Super Bowl LIX will feature Kendrick Lamar as the halftime performer, a decision announced in September 2024.
The news was accompanied by a teaser from Apple Music, the official sponsor, revealing that Grammy-winning artist SZA would also be part of the show.
The black-and-white promo featured Lamar walking across a vast football field, commenting, “This field a lot bigger than what it looks.”
The lighthearted clip took a fun turn when SZA, lurking nearby, surprised him by dumping a water cooler filled with blue liquid over his head, leaving fans eager to see their dynamic on stage.
She later shared her excitement on Instagram, posting, “Taking the stage with @Kendricklamar!”
While this marks Lamar’s first time headlining the halftime show, he previously performed as a guest in 2022 alongside Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre.
Fans had mixed reactions to the announcement, with many praising the choice. “Kendrick deserves it,” one person wrote, while another added, “Back in like 2016 I said Kendrick is the GOAT, I’m happy he has proven me right every step of the way.”
Others, however, were less enthusiastic. Some questioned his energy as a live performer, while others expressed disappointment in yet another rap-centered halftime show.
“Sick of rap at Super Bowl. It is the lowest denominator of music IMHO,” one critic commented. Another added, “Huge disappointment. Not a fan of Kendrick Lamar at all and this will be the first halftime show I won’t care if I miss.”
In response to the backlash, Kendrick Lamar seemingly addressed the criticism in his own way—through his music.
On November 22, he surprise-released his sixth album, GNX, and in the opening track, “Wacced Out Murals,” he acknowledged Lil Wayne’s frustration over being overlooked for the performance.
For those looking to watch the show, Super Bowl LIX will be available to stream live through multiple platforms, including the Fox Sports app, Tubi, FoxSports.com, NFL+, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, FuboTV, and Sling TV.
With an electrifying performance lineup and ongoing discussions surrounding the halftime show, this year’s Super Bowl is shaping up to be a spectacle both on and off the field.
