Most watched Super Bowl
halftime shows

Specific performances have left an indelible mark on viewership records

June 5, 2024

From Usher’s unrivalled spectacle to the dynamic stage presence of Lady Gaga, we spotlight the shows that rewrote the playbook on Super Bowl entertainment and captured the eyes of millions. The Super Bowl halftime show has been a platform for some of the most unforgettable performances, with specific shows making their mark in pop culture history. In addition to being a major cultural event, these halftime performances contribute to the NFL’s total revenue, drawing millions of viewers worldwide.

The Super Bowl halftime show has been a platform for some of the most unforgettable performances, with specific shows making their mark in pop culture history.

We will explore the highlights of the most viewed Super Bowl halftime performances, featuring Usher’s record-setting spectacle, Rihanna’s solo mastery, and Lady Gaga’s electrifying display. These halftime shows at the Bank stadium, featuring performances like the black-eyed peas and Red Hot Chili Peppers, have captivated massive audiences and left a lasting impression.

The Halftime Hall of Fame: Unveiling the Most Viewed Performances

1. Rihanna’s Reign at Super Bowl LVII

Rihanna’s solo act at the 2023 Super Bowl LVII showcased her artistic mastery and captivated an astounding audience of 121 million viewers. Accompanied by many backup dancers, her performance has amassed over 207 million views on YouTube.

Elevating the experience beyond mere musical entertainment, Rihanna unveiled what she expected during her powerful show, intertwining a profoundly personal revelation with professional excellence. Seamlessly integrating a dozen hits into her repertoire that evening solidified Rihanna’s position as one of music’s premier talents.

2. Lady Gaga Lights Up NRG Stadium

Lady Gaga’s electrifying performance at the halftime show at Super Bowl LI is etched in the memories of those who witnessed it. Her bold and theatrical entry from NRG Stadium’s roof exemplified her daring artistry.

Lady Gaga enchanted 117.5 million spectators as she delivered powerful performances of ‘Poker Face,’ ‘Born This Way,’ and ‘Just Dance.’ Not only did her passion resonate with the audience, but she also cemented that event as one of the most viewed in Super Bowl history. True to the spirit of past Super Bowl halftime spectacles, her presence on stage was as lively as a party rock anthem.

3. Katy Perry and the Legendary Left Shark

Headlined by Katy Perry, the 2015 Super Bowl XLIX halftime show generated excitement and drew the attention of an enormous viewership of 121 million people globally. Her performance was peppered with visually dynamic and striking elements that left a lasting impression on audiences everywhere.

Among the highlights was the emergence of Left Shark – a backup dancer who captured widespread attention for its whimsical and impromptu dance steps during the event. Left Shark’s instant viral status underscored how spontaneous moments can significantly enhance the appeal and magic typical of Super Bowl halftime shows, making them unpredictably enjoyable spectacles.

4. Beyoncé’s Destiny’s Child Reunion

Beyoncé’s inaugural performance at the renowned Super Bowl halftime event during Super Bowl XLVII became even more spectacular with an unexpected Destiny’s Child reunion and delighted fans, infusing the show with a sense of nostalgia and exhilaration.

The much-awaited gathering on stage delighted devotees of ‘90s and early 2000s pop tunes, greatly enhancing the audience numbers for the bowl halftime spectacle. This demonstrated how surprising and heartfelt events can dramatically increase viewership and leave an indelible mark on Super Bowl halftime shows.

5. The Prince Tribute by Justin Timberlake

Justin Timberlake’s Super Bowl LII halftime show featured an emotional tribute to Prince, a moment that resonated deeply with viewers and fans of the late musician. This tribute showcased the ability of halftime shows to honour legends and create poignant moments that stay with viewers long after the performance.

The tribute was a fitting homage to a music icon and demonstrated how halftime shows can transcend entertainment, connecting with audiences on an emotional level. Such memorable moments significantly contribute to Super Bowl halftime shows’ viewership and cultural impact.

The Evolution of Super Bowl Sunday Entertainment

The nature of Super Bowl halftime shows has dramatically changed since their early days. What originally started as performances by college marching bands have now become grandiose spectacles headlined by top-tier celebrities. Over the years, the entertainment value of Super Bowl Sunday has increased significantly, with halftime shows transitioning from more straightforward origins to grand spectacles.

A noticeable transitional milestone marked this shift – the Mardi Gras-themed 1990 Super Bowl halftime show. Despite its massive steamboat prop and tribute to Peanuts characters, the show received criticism for an odd pairing and lacklustre performance. One of the most memorable halftime shows in recent history was the Super Bowl LI halftime, which featured an incredible performance that left fans in awe.

From Marching Bands to Mega Stars

The metamorphosis of the Super Bowl halftime show from simple university marching bands adorned with pigeons, balloons, and jetpack-clad performers to showcases featuring global music icons indicates its evolution. Where once traditional elements prevailed now stands a grand stage for pop culture’s biggest names.

This dramatic change underscores how the Super Bowl halftime has expanded beyond its original scope. Halftime now serves as an international stage where megastars deliver unforgettable performances that resonate around the globe, highlighting the Super Bowl’s superlative cultural significance and expansive reach.

The Rise in Production Value

Over the years, the spectacle of Super Bowl halftime shows has escalated substantially. Beginning in the 1990s, when sponsors started to fund these events, there’s been a noticeable trend toward superb musical performances. The recent iterations of Super Bowl halftime spectacles underscore this surge in expenditure, with production budgets hitting as much as $13 million for the NFL.

While footing these substantial costs for production elements, it is notable that halftime shows the NFL does not compensate artists. This progression has led to advancements in set design and state-of-the-art pyrotechnics, significantly revolutionizing audiences’ enjoyment of these performances.