Jay-Z Holds Final Decision on Super Bowl Halftime Show Headliner 

Lil Wayne recently expressed disappointment after being overlooked as the Super Bowl halftime performer for his hometown of New Orleans. 

This raised questions about how the decision is made for who headlines the iconic show. Super Bowl halftime producer Jesse Collins clarified in an interview that Jay-Z has the final say on who takes the stage. 

Image Courtesy: Just Jared

“Jay makes the decision every year, and he’s always picked right,” Collins explained. Since partnering with the NFL in 2019, JAY-Z has been in charge of selecting the artist for the event.

Kendrick Lamar was chosen for the 2025 Super Bowl Halftime Show, which will take place at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. Wayne voiced his disappointment in an emotional Instagram video but thanked his supporters for standing by him.

Image Courtesy: VIBE.com

Collins praised Lamar, stating he is confident the rapper will deliver an exceptional performance. He added, "We’re going to do an amazing show, and Kendrick is going to work exceptionally hard to impress everyone.”

Jay-Z also shared his excitement about Lamar's selection, describing him as a "once-in-a-generation artist" whose influence on culture will be felt for years to come. The partnership between Roc Nation and the NFL has continued to shape the Super Bowl halftime shows with high-profile performers.

-Sushmita Sarkar