Which artist holds the record for most-viewed Super Bowl Halftime show? We count down the 10 most-watched Super Bowl halftime shows.
The Super Bowl is the biggest football game in the world as millions tune in to watch the contest that decides the NFL champion. However, the Super Bowl has become such a cultural phenomenon that non-football fans even tune in to watch the commercials and experience the pageantry. One of the most anticipated aspects of the game is the Super Bowl halftime show.
After Michael Jackson’s performance in 1993, the Super Bowl halftime show became a rite of passage for music royalty. Only the biggest and most popular stars are given the chance to perform at halftime. U2, Paul McCartney, Prince, Bruce Springsteen, Beyoncé, and Lady Gaga have performed at the Super Bowl. Usher will add his name to the list when he performs at Super Bowl LVIII. Because of the massive audience, the Super Bowl halftime show is arguably the biggest concert in the world. Below are the 10 most-viewed Super Bowl halftime shows.10. Jennifer Lopez and Shakira, Super Bowl LIV – 104.1 million viewers
At Super Bowl LIV in Miami, the halftime show featured Jennifer Lopez and Shakira, two of the most prominent Latin pop stars of the last 30 years. In just under 15 minutes, J-Lo and Shakira combined to perform 16 songs, including popular anthems like Empire, Hips Don’t Lie, Jenny from the Block, Waiting for Tonight, and Waka Waka (This Time for Africa).
Each song featured impressively choreographed dance routines from each woman. Before becoming one of the most-streamed artists in the world in 2022, Bad Bunny joined Shakira onstage to sing I Like It and Chantaje. Lopez also had a guest on stage at one point when J Balvin accompanied her for a medley of Que Calor and Mi Gente.9. Justin Timberlake, Super Bowl LII – 106.6 million
During the Super Bowl XXXVIII halftime show, Justin Timberlake pulled off a part of Janet Jackson’s costume to reveal her right breast. Many fans called CBS to complain about the notorious incident. It remains one of the most controversial moments in halftime show history. Fourteen years later, Timberlake received his shot at redemption with the opportunity to perform during Super Bowl LII in Minnesota.
Timberlake performed a medley of his smash hits, including Rock Your Body, Señorita, and SexyBack. Unfortunately, Timberlake did not reunite with NSYNC. However, the Suit & Tie singer paid tribute to Minneapolis-native Prince, who died two years prior.8. Black Eyed Peas, Super Bowl XLV – 110.2 million
Considering the Super Bowl will be a good night for one fan base, the NFL aptly invited the band behind I Gotta Feeling, the Black Eyed Peas, to perform in Arlington, Texas, for Super Bowl XLV. I Gotta Feeling was on the setlist along with Boom Boom Pow, Let’s Get It Started, and Pump It. Special guests included guitarist Slash for a rousing rendition of Sweet Child O’ Mine and Usher for OMG.