The Super Bowl halftime show is just as legendary as the game itself. Fans eagerly await the performances at the 2025 Super Bowl Halftime, which often feature some of the biggest names in music. The event has given us some unforgettable moments from Michael Jackson to Beyoncé, Bruno Mars, The Weeknd, Kendrick Lamar, and Rihanna. Let’s take a look at eight of the most memorable viral moments from the Super Bowl halftime show.
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Here are the 8 Viral Moments in Super Bowl Halftime Show History
Michael Jackson’s Game-Changing Performance (1993)
Michael Jackson redefined what a Super Bowl halftime show could be. While most artists perform for free at the event, the King of Pop managed to negotiate a special deal with the NFL. His performance was broadcast in over 120 countries, making it one of the most-watched moments in television history. Jackson’s electrifying presence and flawless execution set the standard for future Super Bowl shows.
The Weeknd’s Record-Breaking Investment (2021)
Typically, the NFL covers production costs for halftime performances, but artists are not paid for their work. However, The Weeknd took matters into his own hands, investing $7 million of his own money to enhance his 2021 halftime show. His performance, known for its dazzling visuals and elaborate set design, became one of the most expensive in Super Bowl history, costing nearly $20 million overall.
Bruno Mars’ Emotional Tribute to His Mother (2014)
Bruno Mars made history as the youngest performer to headline the Super Bowl halftime show in 2014 at just 28 years old. He delivered an electrifying set, but the most touching moment came when he honored his late mother by opening the performance with an emotional drum solo. The tribute added a heartfelt touch to an already unforgettable show.
The Power Outage After Beyoncé’s Performance (2013)
Beyoncé’s 2013 halftime performance was nothing short of spectacular, featuring a Destiny’s Child reunion and stunning choreography. However, just minutes after her performance, the stadium experienced a power outage that halted the game for 34 minutes. While her show wasn’t the cause of the blackout, the timing led to countless jokes and memes suggesting that Queen Bey had shut the stadium down with her powerful performance.
Rihanna’s Stunning Pregnancy Reveal (2023)
Rihanna’s 2023 Super Bowl halftime show was one for the history books—not just for her performance, but for a major personal announcement. Dressed in all red and suspended in the air, she revealed her baby bump, confirming her second pregnancy. The moment quickly went viral, with fans celebrating the surprise reveal. However, Rihanna also faced some backlash for allegedly lip-syncing parts of her performance. Despite the controversy, her return to the stage after years of hiatus was a standout moment.
Kendrick Lamar’s Impact on the Super Bowl (2022)
Kendrick Lamar made his Super Bowl halftime debut in 2022 as part of a historic lineup featuring Dr. Dre, Eminem, Snoop Dogg, Mary J. Blige, and 50 Cent. His energetic performance of “Alright” and “m.A.A.d city” was praised for its powerful lyrics and stage presence. Lamar recently spoke about his experience performing at major events, admitting he struggles to “settle into the moment” but continues to push boundaries in his performances. He also praised SZA ahead of her 2025 Super Bowl performance, saying she “always had it.”
Celebrities Who Declined the Super Bowl Stage
While performing at the Super Bowl is a dream for many artists, some have turned down the opportunity. Adele, Pink, and Jay-Z have all reportedly declined invitations to perform. In a 2017 interview, Adele explained her decision, saying, “I mean, come on, that show is not about music … I can’t dance or anything like that. They were very kind. They did ask me, but I said no.” Even the Philadelphia Eagles refused to participate in the event back in 2007.
The Halftime Show That Wasn’t Broadcast (1991)
The New Kids on the Block were set to perform at the 1991 Super Bowl halftime show, but their performance was overshadowed by news coverage of the Persian Gulf War. The ABC network chose to air updates on the war instead, cutting away from the band’s show. The incident led some to question whether halftime performances should continue, but over time, the tradition grew even bigger and remains a major highlight of the Super Bowl today.
These moments remind us that the Super Bowl halftime show is more than just a mid-game break – it’s where music history happens, sometimes in ways nobody could predict! Whether it’s technical difficulties, heartfelt tributes, or record-breaking productions, these shows keep us talking long after the final touchdown.
So, what crazy moment will we be talking about next? Guess we’ll have to wait and see! But one thing’s for sure – these halftime shows never fail to give us something to buzz about at Monday morning coffee breaks.
FAQs
Which Super Bowl halftime show was the most expensive?
The Weeknd’s 2021 performance holds the record for most expensive halftime show, costing the NFL approximately$20 million, surpassing both Beyoncé and Shakira’s productions.
Is Kendrick Lamar performing at the 2025 Super Bowl halftime show?
No, Kendrick Lamar is not performing, but he praised SZA ahead of her 2025 Super Bowl performance.
What did Kendrick Lamar say about SZA?
He said that SZA “always had it” and praised her talent before her big performance.
Has Kendrick Lamar ever performed at the Super Bowl?
Yes, Kendrick Lamar performed at the Super Bowl LVI halftime show in 2022 alongside Dr. Dre, Eminem, Snoop Dogg, Mary J. Blige, and 50 Cent.
Has a Super Bowl halftime show ever been cancelled?
The New Kids on the Block’s performance was interrupted and not fully broadcast due to Persian Gulf War coverage on ABC, nearly leading to the cancellation of future halftime shows.
Why don’t Super Bowl performers get paid?
The NFL doesn’t pay performers but covers all production costs. Artists typically benefit from massive exposure, leading to significant increases in music sales and streaming.
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