Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show was a spectacle filled with surprises and powerful moments. The performance opened with Samuel L. Jackson, dressed as Uncle Sam, delivering an electrifying introduction.
“Salutations, it’s your Uncle Sam, and this is the great American game,” Jackson declared, setting the stage for Lamar’s explosive set.
Lamar kicked off the show with “GNX,” the title track from his sixth studio album, before moving seamlessly through a high-energy setlist that included:
- “Squabble Up”
- “Humble”
- “DNA”
- “Euphoria”
- “Man at the Garden”
- “Peekaboo”
Midway through the performance, SZA joined Lamar for “Luther” and “All the Stars,” adding a melodic touch to the set. Serena Williams made a surprise appearance, dancing on stage during “Not Like Us,” while DJ Mustard stepped in for “TV Off.”
Despite heavy speculation, Jay-Z, Doechii, Timothée Chalamet, and Taylor Swift did not take part in the performance.
The show blended music, cultural commentary, and visual storytelling, making it one of the most talked-about halftime shows in Super Bowl history.
Leading up to the event, there was much debate about Lamar’s setlist. Nick Cannon notably argued against performing “Not Like Us,” citing concerns over its potential impact.
Taylor Swift, who was in attendance, faced a mixed reception, with sections of the crowd booing her. The moment quickly went viral when Donald Trump shared a video of it on his Truth Social platform.
Serena Williams, ex-girlfriend to Drake, was C-walking on the Super Bowl stage and gave her own slow whine show after backstage.
Adding to the high-stakes atmosphere, the 47th President of the United States was also present at the game, just hours after announcing plans for the U.S. to take control of Gaza and relocate over 2 million Palestinians from the war-torn region.
The 12 minute half-time performance took a dramatic off-camera turn during Lamar’s final song when a protester rushed the stage, waving a Palestinian flag. The individual made it onto the field and briefly stood among Lamar’s dancers before being swiftly removed by security, including members of the Secret Service.
