Kendrick Lamar surprised the audience during the Super Bowl 2025 Halftime show by bringing out Serena Williams, who is known to be the ex of fellow artist Drake. The event took place at the Caesars Superdome, where Lamar, a celebrated rapper from Compton, California, showcased his talent with a memorable performance. Natasha Dye, a writer-reporter for PEOPLE focusing on sports, captured the moment when Lamar closed the show with his hit single “Not Like Us” — a track that has been associated with his feud with Drake. The tension between Lamar and Drake was evident as Lamar hinted at legal issues by mentioning Drake’s ongoing lawsuit against his record label UMG.
Lamar’s strategic decision to omit certain controversial lyrics in “Not Like Us” during the live performance added a layer of intrigue to the show. Furthermore, the appearance of Serena Williams on stage alongside Lamar added to the excitement, especially considering her past relationship with Drake in 2011. The introduction to Lamar’s performance was made by the iconic Samuel L. Jackson, dressed as Uncle Sam, who made multiple appearances throughout the show. Lamar entertained the audience with some of his popular hits like “HUMBLE.” and “Squabble Up” before delving into the Drake diss track.
The inclusion of SZA, who joined Lamar for two songs from his album GNX, was a highlight of the performance. SZA’s presence on stage brought a new dynamic to Lamar’s set, with her stunning appearance in a red leather ensemble captivating the audience. Lamar had teased fans about the storytelling elements they could expect during his performance, reflecting his passion for conveying narratives through his music. The anticipation was high, especially with the speculation around Lil Wayne potentially making a guest appearance, which did not materialize despite the rapper’s prior expressions of disappointment.
The collaborative efforts between Lamar and SZA, both on stage and in their co-headlining Grand National Tour of U.S. Stadiums, have been well-received by fans. Lamar’s commitment to delivering a compelling show was evident through his careful selection of songs and guest performers. The buzz around the Super Bowl Halftime show only serves to showcase Lamar’s artistry and stage presence, cementing his status as a prominent figure in the music industry. As the event unfolded, fans were treated to a memorable show that combined stellar performances, surprise appearances, and a touch of drama, making it a standout moment in Super Bowl history.