Kendrick Lamar Super Bowl LIX halftime show
Kendrick Lamar’s explosive Super Bowl LIX halftime performance has drawn more than 100 complaints to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The Grammy-winning rapper’s 15-minute set, aired during the Philadelphia Eagles’ 40-22 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs, featured his chart-topping track “Not Like Us”—a pointed diss aimed at fellow artist Drake.
According to multiple reports, at least 10 complaints specifically referenced Lamar’s lyrics targeting Drake. The North Carolina news Some viewers accused the rapper of making “fake, false, and scandalous claims” during a national broadcast, calling the performance “a sad day for American entertainment.”
In addition to lyrical content, many complaints focused on visual elements and choreography used throughout the show. Critics cited anti-American themes, provocative dance moves, and the exclusive presence of Black performers as divisive. The brief appearance of tennis icon Serena Williams—who joined Lamar on stage to perform a signature West Coast dance—also drew mixed reactions from some segments of the audience.
Despite the backlash, Lamar’s halftime show shattered viewership records, drawing an average of 133.5 million viewers and becoming the most-watched halftime performance in Super Bowl history.
Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” Super Bowl full performance. 🔥pic.twitter.com/6id0RyFRCL
— DramaAlert (@DramaAlert) February 10, 2025
Kendrick Lamar joins a growing list of artists who have faced FCC complaints following Super Bowl performances. Rihanna’s 2023 halftime show also received over 100 complaints, while Jennifer Lopez and Shakira’s 2020 performance sparked more than 1,300.
