Rihanna Backs Kendrick Lamar Super Bowl Performance

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 10: Rihanna arrives at the Rihanna x Fenty Hair Los Angeles Launch Party at Nya Studios on June 10, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.
(Photo by Kayla Oaddams/Getty Images)

Rihanna has come out in strong support of Kendrick Lamar, who will headline the 2025 Super Bowl Halftime Show. In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, she praised Lamar’s selection, saying, “It’s a diamond on a ring finger, honey. It’s meant to be!”

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Rihanna is showing her loyalty to friend Kendrick Lamar! 👏 RiRi gushes over the rapper’s upcoming Super Bowl Halftime Show. #rihanna #kendricklamar

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Rihanna Believes Kendrick is the Perfect Choice for the Big Game

Rihanna, who headlined the halftime show in 2023, believes Kendrick is the perfect choice. “It’s Kendrick Lamar! Kendrick Lamar is the one that’s supposed to do it right now,” she said emphatically. “He’s gonna crush it. We should never doubt him.”

The Grammy-winning artist highlighted Kendrick’s significant impact on music and culture. “He’s an amazing artist, top-tier. He had an incredible year,” she added. “He actually brought so many people together. It’s to be celebrated. That’s what culture is. He deserves it. I cannot wait to see it. Kendrick, thank you.”

Kendrick’s selection comes three years after his memorable appearance during Dr. Dre’s performance at the Super Bowl in Los Angeles. He was announced as the headliner in early September, igniting excitement and some debate among fans and artists alike.

Mixed Reactions to the Announcement

While Rihanna and many others celebrate Kendrick’s appointment, the decision has received pushback. Notable figures like Cam’Ron and Nicki Minaj expressed disappointment, particularly among those who hoped for local artists to perform in New Orleans. Despite this, JAY-Z, who leads the selection process, lauded Kendrick as a “once-in-a-generation artist.” He stated, “His deep love for Hip-Hop and culture informs his artistic vision.”

Kendrick himself reflected on the significance of the event, saying, “Rap music is still the most impactful genre to date. And I’ll be there to remind the world why.” His commitment to showcasing hip-hop’s cultural influence is evident.

Rihanna’s own halftime show set records, attracting 121 million viewers. Her performance was historic, not only for its viewership but also for the personal announcement that she was expecting her second child. With Kendrick taking the stage next, fans can expect another unforgettable Super Bowl moment.