Left Shark Reflects on Viral Moment at Katy Perry’s Super Bowl Halftime Show
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Bryan Gaw, famously known as ‘Left Shark’ from Katy Perry’s iconic 2015 Super Bowl halftime show, recently sat down exclusively with PEOPLE to reminisce on his viral performance a decade later. The meme-moment that ensued during Perry’s performance has since become a legendary and endearing piece of pop culture history.
During the Super Bowl XLIX halftime show, in which Katy Perry delivered a vibrant and energetic performance with surprise guests Lenny Kravitz and Missy Elliot, Left Shark stole the show. While the performance attracted 118.5 million views on TV, it was the finned-backup dancer’s seemingly off-script and whimsical dance moves that caught the attention of viewers around the world.
In an interview with PEOPLE ahead of the 2025 Super Bowl, Bryan Gaw, the man behind the Left Shark costume, shared his reflections on that unforgettable moment. He vividly recalled the nerves and excitement he felt stepping onto the grand stage alongside one of the biggest pop stars in the world, performing in front of a massive live audience and millions of viewers at home.
Gaw, who had a rich background in professional dance, had worked with Katy Perry for years leading up to the Super Bowl performance. He described the experience as a culmination of hard work and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to share the stage with a global superstar like Perry. Despite the viral nature of his dance moves, Gaw explained that the “free moment” he embraced during the choreography allowed for a bit of improvisation that resonated with audiences worldwide.
While Left Shark’s quirky dance moves quickly became a social media sensation, Gaw admitted that he was initially taken aback by the overwhelming attention and fame that followed. He chose to maintain anonymity for several years, not wanting to overshadow Perry or steal the spotlight from the main event. However, he eventually revealed his identity and embraced the unexpected fame that came with being Left Shark.
Since his viral Super Bowl moment, Bryan Gaw has followed a different path, transitioning from professional dancing to pursuing a career as a hairstylist in Los Angeles. Despite his shift in focus, dance still remains a passion for him, and he continues to find joy in moving to the rhythm for his own pleasure rather than professionally.
As the anniversary of his iconic Left Shark performance approaches, Gaw looks back on that moment with fondness and gratitude, acknowledging the impact it had on his life and career. While he won’t be gracing the Super Bowl halftime stage this year, he remains a cherished part of Super Bowl history, embodying the spirit of fun, spontaneity, and the unexpected that adds magic to live performances.
As audiences eagerly anticipate this year’s Super Bowl halftime show featuring Kendrick Lamar and surprise performer SZA, Bryan Gaw’s journey serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of entertainment and the unpredictable moments that become etched in our memories long after the event has ended.