*Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl halftime performance in 2025 made history with 133.5 million viewers, but it also sparked controversy.
The performance drew 125 complaints to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), surpassing the 103 complaints filed after Rihanna’s 2023 show, The Blast reports. Critics took issue with explicit lyrics, sexually suggestive dance moves, and anti-American themes, particularly a moment featuring a split American flag.
A significant source of backlash was Lamar’s ongoing feud with fellow rapper Drake. At least ten complaints were tied to this rap beef, with some accusing Lamar of using the Super Bowl stage to air personal grievances. One of the most contentious moments came during his performance of “Not Like Us,” where his lyrics accused Drake of being a pedophile. A viewer even wrote, “Kendrick Lamar made fake false and scandalous claims that are unfounded. He said Drake was a pedophile on TV in front of millions of people, do better, this is a sad day.”
Critics also took issue with the choreography, which some deemed excessive, including complaints about crotch-grabbing. Rihanna faced similar scrutiny for their provocative moves.
Despite the controversy, Lamar’s performance was one of the most-watched in Super Bowl history, drawing 133.5 million viewers, surpassing even legendary Halftime Shows by Michael Jackson and Prince, TMZ reports.
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As we reported earlier, Lamar’s Super Bowl Halftime Show shattered viewership records and ignited conversation about its cultural impact.
Civil rights leader Al Sharpton weighed in on the milestone, applauding Kendrick’s performance and brushing off conservative backlash. Sharpton, like comedian D.L. Hughley, pointed out the significance of Lamar’s pro-Black themes, calling it a defining moment in halftime history.
The performance also gave Lamar’s music a major boost. His streaming numbers skyrocketed
The halftime show also featured R&B star SZA and a surprise appearance by actor Samuel L. Jackson.
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