Six Super Bowl Halftime Shows Superior to the Main Event

There are two types of Super Bowl spectators: those who watch for the game and those who watch for the halftime show. However, on occasion, a halftime show emerges that is so captivating, it overtakes the actual sporting event. A remarkable halftime show has the ability to transcend boundaries, bring viewers together worldwide, and shape, shatter, or revive a career. These performances also ignite the internet with memes and opinions (see: left shark). The following list is not exhaustive, but it highlights some of the most unforgettable performances to grace the football field. Actual football displays are excluded.

Rihanna and Her Baby Bump (2023)

This author perceived Rihanna’s halftime show as lackluster and devoid of energy. Nonetheless, given that I belong to a very small minority, I will reluctantly include RiRi’s name in the list, as it was the most viewed halftime show ever with 121 million viewers. Her laid-back presentation and absence of special guests were commended for allowing Rihanna’s iconic carefree attitude and hit songs to shine. Rihanna has not released an album since 2016, so speculation about her setlist and surprise guest ran rampant. The surprise guest turned out to be her second child in the womb, which she subtly disclosed by not directly acknowledging her pregnancy but strutting on a suspended platform in an unzipped red jumpsuit. The anti-reveal reveal was so quintessentially Rihanna that the internet promptly went wild. Rihanna effectively reminded everyone what they were missing and left them yearning for more, making her halftime performance a resounding success.

Prince (2007)

For Super Bowl XLI, the Indianapolis Colts and the Chicago Bears battled the pouring rain and gusty winds (Colts prevailing 29-17). Prince, on the other hand, faced those same elements while playing a live electric guitar, a rather daring move considering water and electricity are a hazardous combination. Unfazed, Prince set a high standard for halftime shows by starting with Queen’s “We Will Rock You,” transitioning into his own “Let’s Go Crazy,” and ultimately culminating with “Purple Rain.” Watching him shred on his signature Prince symbol guitar in the torrential rain became an instantly iconic sight, solidifying Prince’s status as one of the greatest performers of all time.

Coldplay, Bruno Mars, and Beyoncé but Really Just Beyoncé (2016)

Wait, was the 2016 halftime show headlined by Coldplay? We forget because Beyoncé’s surprise appearance completely stole the spotlight. Initially, Bruno Mars crashed the stage with “Uptown Funk,” to which Beyoncé responded by dominating the field with her impeccably synchronized backup dancers, performing “Formation.” Dressed in a military-style ensemble as a tribute to Michael Jackson’s halftime show attire, Beyoncé strutted to the stage and triumphed in a dance-off with Bruno Mars. By the time Coldplay’s Chris Martin returned to the forefront, even he seemed to recognize that this was Beyoncé’s moment.

Ross’s Spectacular Performance at Super Bowl

Throughout the event, Ross’s performance had been commendable, showcasing her talent as a diva queen. However, what unfolded next truly solidified her status as the ultimate diva queen. In a nonchalant manner, Ross remarked, “Oh, here comes my ride,” as a helicopter descended to pick her up. Seated at the edge of the chopper, she waved to the audience while the helicopter carried her away, with her legs still dangling from the open door. This iconic exit truly demonstrated her flair for drama and showmanship.

Celebrating Ross’s Legendary Exit

The moment when Ross made her exit via helicopter at the Super Bowl left a lasting impression on the audience, showcasing her unparalleled style and grandeur. It was a defining moment that cemented her reputation as a true diva queen in the world of entertainment.

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Super Bowl