Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl Halftime performance in February was widely praised and drew major attention, featuring appearances from SZA, Serena Williams, and Samuel L. Jackson. Even Kanye West called it the “best since Michael Jackson’s.”
But not everyone was happy.
According to a recent report from The Hill, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) received 125 complaints about Lamar’s performance. Most of the criticism centered around what some viewers called “inappropriate lyrics,” “political messaging,” and “vulgar” choreography—with several complaints specifically referencing the focus on Black culture.
Viewers Took Issue With Content and Representation
Some viewers expressed outrage over the show’s content. One Illinois parent said, “My younger kids did not need to see and hear this,” citing offensive language and gestures.
Others claimed the performance wasn’t “family-friendly” or inclusive. A viewer from Maryland wrote, “The halftime show should have both Black and white and be appropriate for everyone.”
Another complaint targeted Samuel L. Jackson’s portrayal of Uncle Sam, asking, “Why was Uncle Sam Black when Uncle Sam is white?” The viewer added that they felt “discriminated against” by the lack of white representation.
Still, Praise Outweighed the Criticism
While 125 FCC complaints may seem like a lot, it’s a small number compared to the 500,000+ complaints received after Janet Jackson’s 2004 halftime show.
In fact, many praised Kendrick Lamar’s performance as one of the most powerful in Super Bowl history. One journalist even called it “the deepest thing I’ve ever seen at a Super Bowl.”
