Beyoncé’s Christmas Day halftime performance ignited a wave of criticism from NFL fans. While the show dazzled many, a banned hand gesture caused a stir online.
A spectacular Christmas Day halftime show
Beyoncé, 43, headlined the Christmas Day halftime show at NRG Stadium in Houston.
The performance occurred during the Texans’ game against the Baltimore Ravens. She wore a white bodysuit, cowboy hat, and chaps, captivating the crowd with hits from her “Cowboy Carter” album.
The singer was joined by Post Malone and Shaboozey for the set.
As she performed “Texas Hold ‘Em,” she was lifted on a platform above the field. However, the final moments of her performance sparked outrage among viewers.
The banned gesture that infuriated NFL fans
As the show concluded, Beyoncé made a finger-gun gesture with her left hand. At the same time, a “BANG” banner unfurled beneath her platform.
The gesture violated NFL rules, which ban finger-gun motions and penalize players with a 15-yard penalty for doing so.
Fans quickly took to social media to express their frustration.
One person said: She’s becoming a joke. No one is bowing down maybe just in her mind.
A second wrote: I can’t stand her but this is the last gesture she could make that would offend me. This is ridiculous.
While a third commented: She’s not a player…
Another added: Turned off the game the moment she came on!
One set of rules for celebrities and another for everyone. Someone else said.
Additionally, some fans questioned her authenticity as a country artist, adding to the controversy.
Beyoncé’s NFL Ties and a deeper backstory
Beyoncé’s connection to the NFL runs deep, thanks to her husband Jay-Z.
In 2019, the league partnered with his company, Roc Nation, making it the NFL’s official live music entertainment strategist. Despite this, Beyoncé’s gesture drew criticism for perceived double standards regarding league policies.
Jay-Z, who was not present at the performance, is currently under scrutiny due to past allegations.
A lawsuit accuses him and Sean “Diddy” Combs of misconduct at a 2000 MTV event. Jay-Z has denied the allegations, calling them false and a blackmail attempt. No charges have been filed against him.
A memorable moment for Blue Ivy
While the controversy swirled, Beyoncé’s 12-year-old daughter, Blue Ivy, stole the spotlight.
She joined her mother on stage, dancing during the nearly 13-minute performance.
Fans celebrated the touching moment between mother and daughter, providing a lighter note to the event.
In short, Beyoncé’s halftime show delivered both stunning visuals and a wave of controversy.
The finger-gun gesture has sparked ongoing debates among NFL fans. Despite the backlash, the performance highlighted her star power and ability to dominate the stage.