Kendrick Lamar
Halftime Show Draws 125 FCC Complaints
… A Few Drake Feud Gripes
Published
Kendrick Lamar‘s Super Bowl halftime show sparked controversy with 125 complaints sent to the FCC. Viewers expressed concerns about inappropriate lyrics, raunchy dance moves, and perceived anti-American themes, with some taking issue with the inclusion of Drake feud references.
data-context='{“section”:”permalink”,”name”:”text_block”}’>
TMZ Sports obtained the complaints, with many criticizing Kendrick for using explicit language, featuring only Black performers, and displaying divisive imagery such as a split American flag.
alt=”kendrick lamar celine marco jeans” width=”728″ height=”546″
class=”img-fluid image-block__img-fluid img-aspect-auto”>
Several complaints also highlighted Kendrick’s provocative dance moves, including crotch-grabbing gestures that were deemed inappropriate.
data-context='{“section”:”permalink”,”name”:”text_block”}’>
Furthermore, a number of complaints criticized Kendrick for using the platform to target his rival, Drake, with some viewers feeling that it was a distraction from the overall performance.
alt=”drake and kendrick lamar getty 1″ width=”728″ height=”546″
class=”img-fluid image-block__img-fluid img-aspect-auto”>
Specifically, Kendrick’s reference to Drake as a pedophile during his performance of “Not Like Us” sparked outrage among viewers, with accusations of spreading false and scandalous claims.
data-context='{“section”:”permalink”,”name”:”text_block”}’>
Additionally, criticisms were directed at Serena Williams for alleged promotion of “gang affiliation” and Kanye West‘s commercial that aired in select markets.
data-context='{“section”:”permalink”,”name”:”text_block”}’>
Despite the complaints, Kendrick’s halftime show reached a massive audience of 133.5 million viewers, indicating a polarizing but impactful performance.
data-context='{“section”:”permalink”,”name”:”text_block”}’>
Comparatively, previous halftime shows, such as Rihanna‘s in 2024 and Jennifer Lopez and Shakira‘s in 2020, also faced criticism with varying levels of FCC complaints.
