Lil Wayne reacts to Super Bowl halftime snub in hometown

Lil Wayne expressed deep disappointment over not being selected as the headliner for the Super Bowl LIX halftime show in his hometown of New Orleans. He stated that the snub 'broke' him, as he had mentally prepared himself for the opportunity, believing it was a perfect fit for him. Several prominent artists, including Nicki Minaj and Master P, voiced their support for Wayne, criticizing the decision to choose Kendrick Lamar instead. They suggested that Jay-Z, a co-producer of the halftime show, played a role in the selection process, which has been marred by past feuds involving Wayne and Jay-Z. The selection process for halftime performers involves a curation by the host city, which must be approved by various NFL boards. This year, the choice of Kendrick Lamar has sparked controversy, especially given the significance of the event being held in New Orleans, a city closely associated with Lil Wayne's career. DJ Akademiks and others have speculated that Jay-Z's ongoing feud with Wayne and his associates may have influenced the decision. Lil Wayne had previously expressed interest in headlining the 2025 Super Bowl halftime show, indicating that he had not yet been contacted but remained hopeful. His emotional response to the snub highlights the personal connection he feels to the event and the platform it represents for artists from New Orleans. The situation underscores the complexities of the music industry, where personal relationships and rivalries can significantly impact career opportunities. As the debate continues, many fans and artists alike are rallying behind Wayne, advocating for his recognition in future events.