Kendrick Lamar and Serena Williams' Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show
- Team NXTWEKE
- Feb 12
- 2 min read
The Super Bowl LIX halftime show on February 9, 2025, was nothing short of a cultural phenomenon. Headlined by Kendrick Lamar, the performance not only shattered viewership records but also featured a surprise appearance by tennis legend Serena Williams. Let's dive into the highlights, controversies, and the internet's favorite moments from this unforgettable show.
Kendrick Lamar's Record-Breaking Performance
Kendrick Lamar took center stage at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, delivering a performance that captivated audiences worldwide. The halftime show drew an astonishing 133.5 million viewers, surpassing the previous record held by Michael Jackson's 1993 performance.
Lamar's setlist was a mix of his biggest hits and newer tracks, including "HUMBLE," "DNA," and "All the Stars." He also performed "Not Like Us," a track widely interpreted as a diss aimed at fellow rapper Drake. The performance was rich with symbolism, featuring dancers forming an American flag and actor Samuel L. Jackson portraying "Uncle Sam." These elements highlighted themes of historical injustices and systemic oppression.
Serena Williams' Surprise Cameo
In a move that left many viewers pleasantly surprised, Serena Williams joined Lamar on stage during "Not Like Us." She performed a brief but energetic Crip Walk, a dance move she famously showcased after winning the gold medal at the 2012 Olympics. Williams later explained that Lamar and his team had invited her, expressing admiration for her Olympic victory dance. She saw it as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to dance at the Super Bowl and enthusiastically accepted.
Public Reactions: Cheers and Jeers
The halftime show garnered a wide range of reactions. Many fans praised the performance for its boldness and creativity. Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton took to Instagram, describing Williams' appearance as "Iconic."
However, not everyone was impressed. ESPN's Stephen A. Smith criticized Williams' participation, suggesting it was inappropriate for her to perform a dance associated with gang culture during a family-friendly event. He also pointed out the potential awkwardness of Williams dancing to a diss track targeting her ex, Drake. Despite facing backlash for his comments, Smith stood by his critique.
Internet Buzz: Memes and More
As expected, the internet had a field day with the halftime show. Social media platforms were flooded with memes, jokes, and debates. Some users humorously speculated about Drake's reaction to the performance, given the layered personal histories involved. Others focused on the impressive choreography and the unexpected blend of sports and music icons sharing the stage.
Final Thoughts: A Halftime Show for the Ages
Kendrick Lamar's Super Bowl halftime show was a masterclass in blending entertainment with thought-provoking commentary. Serena Williams' cameo added an extra layer of intrigue, bridging the worlds of sports and music in a way that few could have anticipated. Whether you loved it or loathed it, there's no denying that this performance will be talked about for years to come.
For those who missed it or want to relive the moment, here's a clip of Serena Williams dancing during the halftime show: https://youtu.be/KDorKy-13ak?si=sFlZV3EhOEayETrg
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