21 memorable Super Bowl halftime shows (since 2001)

The 2001 Super Bowl halftime show featuring Aerosmith was marked by the presence of special guests such as N Sync, Britney Spears, Mary J. Blige, and Nelly. This collaboration of renowned artists delivered an energetic performance blending rock, pop, and hip-hop, creating a memorable and diverse show.

U2’s halftime performance after the September 11 attacks was emotional. Their powerful rendition of Where the Streets Have No Name captivated the audience, offering a moment of solidarity and hope. The music transcended the sporting event, becoming a celebration of global resilience.

Although controversial due to the famous wardrobe malfunction involving Janet Jackson and Justin Timberlake, the 2004 halftime show also featured several other artists, including Nelly and Kid Rock.

Paul McCartney’s performance at the 2005 Super Bowl was a classic musical celebration. The icon captivated the audience with hits such as Hey Jude. The atmosphere was tinged with nostalgia, highlighting his timeless influence. The warm reception from the audience was a tribute to McCartney’s emotion and musical mastery.

The Rolling Stones’ 2006 Super Bowl halftime show featured energetic performances of their timeless classics, including Start Me Up and Satisfaction. Mick Jagger’s charismatic stage presence and the band’s iconic rock sound delivered an unforgettable performance, showcasing their enduring musical legacy on the world stage.

Prince delivered a memorable performance at the 2007 Super Bowl, in the rain. His musical mastery was on display in an epic guitar solo on Purple Rain, instantly becoming legendary. His performance combined virtuosity and emotion, leaving an indelible mark on the history of halftime shows.

Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers’ performance at Super Bowl 2008 was a musical extravaganza. With hits like Free Fallin’, the atmosphere was authentic and rock ‘n’ roll. The audience applauded the integrity and solid performance, making this performance an unforgettable experience.

The sensational performance at Super Bowl 2011 with the Black Eyed Peas, Usher, and Slash was a dynamic show. The catchy hits, the fusion of pop and rock, and the excitement on stage created an electric atmosphere. The audience’s reception praised the energy and musical diversity.

Madonna’s 2012 Super Bowl XLVI halftime show featured surprise appearances by Nicki Minaj, M.I.A., CeeLo Green, and LMFAO. The performance included hits such as “Vogue,” “Music,” and “Like a Prayer.” The extravagant show showcased Madonna’s iconic style, elaborate choreography, and a memorable finale with CeeLo Green.

Beyoncé electrified the 2013 Super Bowl with an energetic performance, reuniting Destiny’s Child for iconic moments. Songs such as Single Ladies and Crazy in Love added to the power of her show, cementing her status as the undisputed queen of the stage.

The 2014 Super Bowl halftime show featuring Bruno Mars and the Red Hot Chili Peppers was a musical explosion. Mars lit up the stage with his infectious energy, performing hits like “Uptown Funk.” RHCP’s rock fusion added to the electricity of the evening, receiving cheers for its dynamism.

It’s impossible to forget Katy Perry’s arrival on her giant lion and her powerful performance of her many hits, not to mention the famous “left shark”!

The 2016 Super Bowl halftime show featuring Coldplay, Beyoncé, and Bruno Mars was a dynamic fusion. Hits like “Uptown Funk” and “Formation” created an electric atmosphere. The collaboration between the artists was praised for its energy, although some criticized Coldplay’s performance.

Lady Gaga’s performance at the 2017 Super Bowl was a display of artistic extravagance. With a spectacular entrance from the stadium roof, she performed hits such as Bad Romance. The dazzling energy and special effects drew praise, marking a memorable and acclaimed performance.

Justin Timberlake’s performance at the 2018 Super Bowl was a vibrant celebration. Performing hits such as Can’t Stop the Feeling!, Timberlake created a danceable atmosphere. His tribute to Prince was remarkable. Despite some criticism, the overall reception praised his stage talent and the audience’s enthusiasm.

Shakira and Jennifer Lopez’s fiery collaboration at Super Bowl 2020 was an unforgettable experience. Their show was full of Latin flavors, intoxicating choreography, and hits such as Hips Don’t Lie and On The Floor, captivating the audience with vibrant energy.

The Weeknd lit up the 2021 Super Bowl with his dazzling performance. Surrounded by light, he performed his hits, including Blinding Lights, creating an electric atmosphere. Despite the absence of an audience due to the pandemic, his visually striking performance drew praise for its creativity and visual impact.

The Super Bowl 2022 performance by Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar, 50 Cent, and Anderson .Paak was widely acclaimed. Bringing together hip-hop icons, the show captivated audiences with its electrifying energy and iconic moments, receiving praise for its cultural and musical impact.

Rihanna’s halftime show in 2023 was a musical and visual explosion, showcasing her hits such as Umbrella and Diamonds. The revelation of her second pregnancy in front of the halftime show audience added a memorable touch to this exceptional event.

Super Bowl LIX, held on February 9, 2025, at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, was marked by a much-discussed performance by Kendrick Lamar, headliner of the halftime show. The artist delivered a dense and masterful show, accompanied by prestigious guests SZA, Samuel L. Jackson, Serena Williams, and Mustard, who added a real event dimension to the whole. In a highly scripted staging, Kendrick performed several of his hits with characteristic intensity, combining powerful rap, impeccable rhythm, and symbolic visual tableaux. At times, the choreography and the dancers’ formation even evoked the American flag, reinforcing the narrative scope of the show. Lasting about fifteen minutes, the performance generated a huge response and was praised as much for its ambitious production as for its impact, establishing itself as one of the most talked-about and watched halftime shows in recent years.

The Super Bowl LX Halftime Show, held on February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, was headlined by Bad Bunny, who became the first Latin artist to headline the NFL halftime show solo. In a show lasting about fifteen minutes, the artist delivered an electrifying performance, conceived as a true love letter to Puerto Rico and Latino culture, but also to all countries. Musically, Bad Bunny performed a string of hits, opening with Tití Me Preguntó, followed by songs such as Monaco, DtMF, and Yo Perreo Sola, in a vibrant and immersive setting. The set design was full of cultural references, including a scene set in a sugar cane field and La Casita, inspired by traditional houses, with a much-talked-about moment: a wedding celebrated live during the performance. The evening also featured surprise appearances by Lady Gaga (for a salsa version of Die With a Smile) and Ricky Martin, as well as cameos by celebrities such as Pedro Pascal, Cardi B, and Karol G. Finally, the show concluded with a message of unity: “Together we are America,” which was intended to convey the overall purpose of the performance: the importance of peace and love.