Rihanna backs Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl Halftime show as fans question Lil Wayne’s exclusion

Following her iconic Super Bowl LVII performance, Rihanna shows support for Lamar's upcoming LIX halftime show.

Rihanna has shown her excitement for Kendrick Lamar’s upcoming Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show performance, giving her stamp of approval by liking his announcement on Instagram. 

Lamar will headline the big event in 2025, following in Rihanna’s footsteps after her memorable performance at Super Bowl LVII in 2023. 

Lamar made the announcement with a playful video that took a jab at his rival Drake, saying, “You know it’s only one opportunity to win a championship — no round twos,” a clear reference to Drake’s recent comments about preparing for a "Game 2."

The NFL has partnered with JAY-Z and Roc Nation to produce the Halftime Show, with JAY-Z praising Lamar in a statement. 

“Kendrick Lamar is truly a once-in-a-generation artist and performer. His deep love for hip-hop and culture informs his artistic vision. He has an unparalleled ability to define and influence culture globally. Kendrick’s work transcends music, and his impact will be felt for years to come,” JAY-Z said.

While many fans are excited to see Lamar take the Super Bowl stage, not everyone is pleased with the choice.

 A significant number of fans have expressed disappointment that Lil Wayne, a New Orleans native, was not invited to perform, given that the game will take place in his hometown. 

Even hip-hop mogul Master P voiced his opinion on social media, suggesting that the NFL should find a way to include Lil Wayne in the show.

DJ Akademiks also chimed in on the controversy, accusing JAY-Z of orchestrating Lamar’s selection as a way to disrespect Drake, suggesting the performance would be another major event like Lamar’s previous “The Pop Out” show. 

The debate over Lamar headlining continues to stir strong reactions on social media, with some praising the choice and others feeling Lil Wayne should have been given the spotlight.