New Orleans – Kendrick Lamar delivered a halftime show for the ages at Super Bowl LIX, making waves with a star-studded performance featuring SZA and an unexpected appearance by tennis legend Serena Williams as a backup dancer. But the biggest moment? Lamar performing “Not Like Us”—a direct jab at rival Drake.
Lamar kicked off the show with electrifying performances of “Squabble Up,” “Humble,” and “DNA.” Hollywood icon Samuel L. Jackson acted as the emcee, hyping up the crowd at Caesars Superdome before Lamar dropped the beat for “Not Like Us.”
Speculation had swirled around whether Lamar would perform the song, which played a central role in his feud with Drake. While he hesitated at first, he eventually went all in—smirking as he mentioned Drake’s name. Lamar also rocked an “a minor” chain, seemingly poking fun at Drake’s rumored lawsuit threats.
To add even more star power, SZA joined him for a stunning rendition of “All The Stars.” Then, in a major surprise, Compton’s own Serena Williams hit the stage as a backup dancer, closing out the performance in iconic fashion.
Midway through the show, a performer was detained after pulling out a Palestinian flag with “Sudan” and “Gaza” written on it. The NFL and Roc Nation confirmed the person was part of Lamar’s 400-member cast but stated the act was not planned.
“The individual hid the item and unveiled it late in the show,” an NFL spokesperson said, confirming the person has now been banned for life from all NFL stadiums and events.
Despite the controversy, Lamar’s performance is being hailed as one of the most memorable in Super Bowl history. But one thing’s for sure—Drake won’t be thrilled.
