Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl LIX halftime show was one of the most talked-about performances in recent history.
While some praised the rapper’s artistry and bold stage presence, others felt the show fell short of expectations.
The 37-year-old Grammy winner took the stage at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, delivering a high-energy performance.
Lamar’s set included a medley of his biggest hits, including HUMBLE, DNA, and Not Like Us.
His performance also featured notable cameos from legendary actor Samuel L. Jackson and tennis icon Serena Williams.
Jackson’s appearance as a satirical “Uncle Sam” and Williams’ energetic dance moves added unexpected twists to the show.
Despite the intricate choreography and thought-provoking themes, Lamar’s performance divided audiences.
Many fans took to social media, calling it the “worst halftime show ever” and questioning the NFL’s choice of headliner.
The Guardian described Lamar’s set as “a departure from the usual halftime spectacle,” opting for deeper messages over traditional entertainment.
Some critics pointed out the politically charged elements, while others were disappointed by the lack of mainstream appeal.
As the dust settled, a new conversation emerged among music fans about the future of the Super Bowl halftime show.
A growing number of viewers are now demanding a shift towards country music for next year’s event.
Social media has been flooded with calls for country megastar Morgan Wallen to take center stage at Super Bowl 2026.
Many fans argue that Wallen’s energetic performances and relatable lyrics would make for an unforgettable show.
“If I could pick the next Super Bowl halftime show performer, it would be Morgan Wallen,” one fan tweeted.
“All age/race demographics know his songs. He’d put an energetic/exciting show on. He can bring lots of big guest stars.”
Morgan Wallen has become one of the biggest names in country music in recent years.
His third studio album, One Thing at a Time, dominated the Billboard 200 for 16 weeks in 2023.
The album’s massive success proved Wallen’s ability to captivate audiences across different music genres.
However, not everyone is convinced that Wallen is the right choice for the Super Bowl stage.
Some think the country star’s past controversy could hurt him.
In 2021, Wallen was suspended from his label after a video surfaced of him using a racial slur.
As a result, major radio stations and streaming services temporarily pulled his music.
Although he has since apologized and rebuilt his career, the scandal continues to follow him.
In 2024, Wallen made headlines again after an incident at a rooftop bar in Nashville.
The singer threw a chair off the balcony, nearly hitting police officers below.
He was charged with felony reckless endangerment but later accepted a plea deal, serving a short jail sentence.
“Considering Morgan Wallen’s background… I don’t think you’re gonna see him at a Super Bowl,” one fan wrote.
Despite the controversy, Wallen’s fanbase remains as passionate as ever.
Many argue that his past mistakes should not prevent him from performing on one of the world’s biggest stages.
Some are even suggesting that Wallen should not take the stage alone.
Fans are calling for a country music takeover, with stars like Luke Combs, Lainey Wilson, and Post Malone joining him.
“Next year the Super Bowl should go country for the halftime show. Morgan Wallen x Post Malone x Jelly Roll could be fun,” a fan suggested.
Another added, “I feel like it’s time for a country Super Bowl halftime show. Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen, Chris Stapleton, Lainey Wilson, Carrie Underwood.”
While some believe Wallen is the perfect choice, others have different ideas for next year’s halftime performer.
Names like Metallica, Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift, Bad Bunny, and Ariana Grande are also circulating online.
The NFL has not yet made an official announcement regarding the Super Bowl 2026 halftime show.
However, the growing demand for a country music headliner is impossible to ignore.
With millions of viewers and a global stage, the Super Bowl halftime show remains one of the most prestigious performance slots in entertainment.
Whether the league will embrace country music in 2026 remains to be seen.
Fans are clearly making their voices heard, and the debate over next year’s headliner is still ongoing.
Featured Image Credit: (Gregory Shamus)
