The Super Bowl halftime show is one of the biggest entertainment spectacles in the world, often drawing more viewers than the game itself. Over the years, some performances have shattered records, leaving lasting impressions on millions. Let’s count down the most-watched Super Bowl halftime shows of all time and relive the moments that made history.
10. Shakira & Jennifer Lopez (2020) – 103 Million Viewers
At Super Bowl LIV, Shakira and Jennifer Lopez brought an electrifying mix of Latin culture, dance, and powerhouse vocals. Their performance featured surprise guest appearances, including J Balvin and Bad Bunny, and ended with J.Lo draped in a Puerto Rican flag. It was a celebration of diversity and one of the most energetic halftime shows ever.
🎶 Unforgettable Moment: Shakira’s signature “tongue wag” went viral instantly, while J.Lo’s pole-dancing routine showcased her Super Bowl-worthy skills.
9. Madonna (2012) – 114 Million Viewers
Madonna took the stage at Super Bowl XLVI with a show packed with massive hits and grand visuals. She entered in true queen fashion, carried in by a Roman army, and performed alongside Nicki Minaj, M.I.A., LMFAO, and CeeLo Green.
🎶 Unforgettable Moment: The controversy surrounding M.I.A. flipping the middle finger on live TV—one of the biggest “oops” moments in halftime history.
8. Bruno Mars & Red Hot Chili Peppers (2014) – 115.3 Million Viewers
Bruno Mars proved he was a superstar at Super Bowl XLVIII, delivering a performance that blended classic showmanship with modern energy. The addition of the Red Hot Chili Peppers brought an extra rock-and-roll punch to the night.
🎶 Unforgettable Moment: Bruno Mars opening with a killer drum solo before jumping into “Locked Out of Heaven.”
7. Coldplay, Beyoncé, & Bruno Mars (2016) – 115.5 Million Viewers
While Coldplay technically headlined Super Bowl 50, many will remember this performance for Beyoncé and Bruno Mars stealing the show. Coldplay brought colorful visuals and uplifting music, but once Queen Bey and Bruno entered with a dance battle, it was game over.
🎶 Unforgettable Moment: Beyoncé dropping her politically charged performance of “Formation,” nearly falling but recovering like a pro.
6. Lady Gaga (2017) – 117.5 Million Viewers
At Super Bowl LI, Lady Gaga made a literal jump into history by leaping from the roof of the stadium. Her powerful vocals and dynamic choreography kept audiences glued to the screen, making it one of the most-watched shows ever.
🎶 Unforgettable Moment: Gaga’s dramatic entrance, jumping off the stadium roof while singing “God Bless America” before launching into “Poker Face.”
5. Katy Perry (2015) – 118.5 Million Viewers
Katy Perry’s Super Bowl XLIX performance had everything—a giant mechanical lion, fireworks, and of course, Left Shark. Her setlist was packed with hits, and her high-energy performance captivated over 118.5 million viewers.
🎶 Unforgettable Moment: The uncoordinated yet legendary Left Shark became an overnight meme sensation.
4. Rihanna (2023) – 121 Million Viewers
Rihanna made a jaw-dropping return to the stage for Super Bowl LVII, performing from floating platforms while revealing her pregnancy mid-performance. With no guest appearances and minimal choreography, she still managed to captivate a record-breaking audience.
🎶 Unforgettable Moment: Rihanna casually fixing her makeup with Fenty Beauty mid-performance—pure billionaire energy.
3. Usher (2024) – 129.3 Million Viewers
Usher’s Super Bowl LVIII halftime show was a masterclass in R&B and dance, drawing in 129.3 million viewers. His performance included roller skating, hit after hit, and even a surprise cameo from Alicia Keys.
🎶 Unforgettable Moment: Usher gliding across the stage on skates like it was second nature.
2. Michael Jackson (1993) – 133.4 Million Viewers
The King of Pop changed the Super Bowl halftime show forever at Super Bowl XXVII. Before Michael Jackson, halftime shows were more like filler entertainment. His electrifying performance, featuring “Billie Jean,” “Black or White,” and “Heal the World,” captivated 133.4 million viewers, setting the stage for every halftime show that followed.
🎶 Unforgettable Moment: MJ standing completely still for 90 seconds while the crowd went wild.
1. Kendrick Lamar (2025) – 133.5 Million Viewers
The most-watched Super Bowl halftime show in history. Kendrick Lamar’s performance at Super Bowl LIX drew 133.5 million viewers, narrowly surpassing Michael Jackson’s long-standing record. With cinematic visuals, a powerful setlist, and special guests like SZA, Lamar’s halftime show solidified him as one of the greatest artists of his generation.
🎶 Unforgettable Moment: Kendrick closing the show with a tribute to Tupac, sending chills through the audience.
Final Thoughts
Over the years, the Super Bowl halftime show has evolved into one of the biggest cultural events on the planet. While Michael Jackson’s 1993 performance set the standard, newer artists like Rihanna, Usher, and Kendrick Lamar have continued to push boundaries and break records.
💬 Which halftime show is your favorite? Drop your thoughts in the comments!
About the Author
Prince should be right up there with MJ!!
Kendrick Lamars performance was just a publicity stunt and done in poor taste! It should have never been allowed to be televised! The whole ‘show’ if you can call it that was terrible and in bad judgment!