Performer arrested for waving protest flag at Super Bowl halftime show

In the United States, on February 9, 2025, during Super Bowl LIX held at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, a performer named Kwame Ntantambu disrupted the halftime show by displaying a protest flag. The flag bore the messages 'Sudan and Free Gaza'. Ntantambu, who was 41 years old at the time, was part of the show as an extra performer but deviated from his assigned role. He ran across the field while waving the flag during Kendrick Lamar's performance, which caught the attention of security personnel present. Upon being confronted, he fled, leading to a chaotic situation that resulted in his apprehension. Security and law enforcement personnel quickly recognized that Ntantambu's actions were unauthorized and decided to take action to maintain order during the highly publicized event. Following the incident, Louisiana State Police initiated an investigation that confirmed Ntantambu's identity and his prior consent to be on the field as a backup dancer. However, authorities emphasized that he did not receive permission to conduct any form of demonstration or protest during the performance. As the situation escalated, police monitored the case and a warrant for Ntantambu's arrest was issued through the Orleans Parish Criminal District Court. After approximately four and a half months, on June 26, 2025, he surrendered himself to the police in coordination with his attorney. He was charged with two misdemeanors: resisting an officer and disturbing the peace by interrupting a lawful assembly. Upon being booked into the Orleans Parish Justice Center, the NFL announced that Ntantambu would also be banned from attending any games or events in the future. The public reacted with a mixture of opinions, reflecting on the implications of his protest and the response of law enforcement. Many discussions arose surrounding freedom of expression during public events and the responsibilities of performers. This incident marked a significant example of the intersection between sports and political activism, drawing both support and criticism from various quarters in society. As investigations and legal proceedings unfold in the aftermath of this disruption, it remains to be seen how such actions will influence future relationships between artists and their platforms. The NFL expressed gratitude towards law enforcement for their handling of the incident, indicating that they take such disruptions very seriously and intend to hold individuals accountable for actions that undermine the integrity of their events.