Kendrick Lamar’s 2025 Super Bowl Halftime Show has officially become the most-watched of all time, drawing a record-breaking 133.5 million viewers. Discover the highlights, surprises, and cultural impact of this historic performance.
Kendrick Lamar's Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show, held on February 9, 2025, at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, has set a new benchmark in entertainment history by becoming the most-watched halftime performance ever. The show garnered an average of 133.5 million viewers across traditional television and digital platforms, surpassing the previous record held by Michael Jackson's 1993 performance.
The Super Bowl LIX game itself attracted an average of 127.7 million viewers, peaking at 137.7 million during the second quarter. Lamar's halftime show not only captivated the existing audience but also drew additional viewers, contributing to its record-breaking status.
Lamar's 15-minute performance was a masterful blend of music, storytelling, and cultural commentary. He opened with a snippet of an unreleased track titled "Bodies," setting a tone of anticipation. The stage design, resembling a giant PlayStation controller, added a modern and playful element to the show. Throughout the performance, actor Samuel L. Jackson appeared as "Uncle Sam," providing satirical commentary that underscored the show's thematic depth.
- "Humble"
- "DNA"
- "Euphoria"
- "Man at the Garden"
- "Peekaboo"
A highlight of the show was Lamar's performance of "Luther" and "All the Stars" alongside R&B artist SZA, adding a soulful dimension to the event. The surprise appearance of tennis legend Serena Williams, who performed a brief dance during "Not Like Us," added an unexpected and memorable moment.
Lamar did not shy away from addressing his ongoing feud with fellow rapper Drake. He performed the diss track "Not Like Us," which had previously won multiple Grammy Awards. Before launching into the song, Lamar quipped, "I want to perform their favorite song, but you know they love to sue," referencing Drake's legal actions against him. This bold move was seen as a definitive statement in their rivalry.
Critics lauded the performance for its artistry and cultural significance. Lisa Respers France of CNN highlighted "Not Like Us" as the standout moment, while Maria Sherman of the Associated Press described the performance as a historic milestone in Lamar's career. Jon Caramanica of The New York Times called it "quite a spectacle—perhaps the peak of any rap battle, ever."
The performance's viewership of 133.5 million not only set a new record for Super Bowl halftime shows but also underscored Lamar's immense popularity and the growing influence of hip-hop in mainstream culture. The show's success was further amplified by its availability on streaming platforms like Tubi, which contributed to the overall viewership.
Kendrick Lamar's Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show was a landmark event that combined musical excellence, cultural commentary, and star-studded performances. Its record-breaking viewership reflects not only Lamar's talent but also the evolving landscape of entertainment consumption. The performance will be remembered as a defining moment in Super Bowl history and a testament to the power of music to engage and inspire audiences worldwide.
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