The NFL issues an apology following backlash over the Super Bowl halftime show, as Kendrick Lamar’s performance sparks controversy among fans.
NFL issues apology to Lil Wayne over halftime show snub
The NFL sent an official letter of apology to Lil Wayne after announcing Kendrick Lamar as the Super Bowl halftime show performer.
The decision sparked outrage, especially since Lil Wayne has deep ties to New Orleans, where the game took place.
Controversy over kendrick lamar’s halftime performance
Fans criticized Kendrick Lamar’s performance at the Superdome, calling it underwhelming. Many took to social media, labeling it “the worst halftime show ever.”
His set included “Not Like Us,” a diss track aimed at rapper Drake, which only fueled further debate.
Sports commentator skip bayless speaks out
Sports analyst Skip Bayless was vocal about the snub. On his YouTube show, he revealed that the NFL had sent Lil Wayne a letter in September.
“The NFL immediately sent Wayne a letter of apology,” Bayless stated. “It was from the league, thanking him for years of support.”
Bayless, a close friend of Lil Wayne, emphasized the rapper’s contributions. “He makes weekly appearances on the NFL’s Sunday pregame show, ‘NFL GameDay Morning,’ yet was still overlooked.”
Lil Wayne devastated by the decision
Lil Wayne admitted that the decision deeply affected him. He opened up about his disappointment during an Instagram Live session.
“I blame myself for not preparing for a letdown,” he said. “That stage, in my city, meant everything to me. It hurt, a whole lot.”
Bayless also described Lil Wayne’s emotional response. “When the news broke, it hit Wayne hard. He didn’t do much for several days. He’s better now.”
Kendrick Lamar’s performance stirs controversy
Despite winning five Grammys earlier this month, Kendrick Lamar failed to impress at the Super Bowl. His performance began atop a car at the Superdome and featured subtle jabs at Drake.
Drake had recently sued Lamar’s record label, Universal Music Group, over “Not Like Us.” In the lawsuit, Drake took issue with being labeled a “certified pedophile.” In response, Lamar edited the lyrics but still performed the song.
During his set, Kendrick referenced the legal battle. “I want to perform their favorite song, but you know they love to sue,” he told the crowd.
Celebrity cameos fail to save the show
The performance included big-name appearances. Samuel L. Jackson, dressed as “Uncle Sam,” introduced Lamar. R&B singer SZA made a guest appearance. Tennis legend Serena Williams, who once dated Drake, also joined the performance for a surprise dance cameo.
Despite these efforts, the show failed to impress. Fans flooded social media with criticism.
“I can’t tell if I’m biased, but this was the worst halftime show I’ve seen,” one user wrote on X.
“I thought The Weeknd was bad, but Kendrick Lamar took that spot!” another added.
Halftime show disrupted by protester
In a moment not aired on TV, a protester stormed the stage waving a Palestinian flag. Security quickly tackled and dragged him off the field.
Kendrick continued performing, seemingly unaffected by the interruption.
Lil Wayne’s fans remain upset over his exclusion from the show.
Many believe the NFL made a mistake. Meanwhile, Kendrick Lamar’s halftime performance will be remembered for the controversy it generated, both on and off the stage.