Lil Wayne Claims NFL 'Stole' Super Bowl Gig After 2025 Snub

Lil Wayne has expressed disappointment over not being selected to headline the 2025 Super Bowl Halftime Show in his hometown of New Orleans, revealing that NFL executives encouraged him to be more public-facing in preparation for the potential gig. He attended high-profile events and increased his visibility, actions he says were out of character, believing these moves indicated he was a favorite for the show. However, when Kendrick Lamar was ultimately chosen, Wayne said someone from the NFL apologized and explained that the final decision was out of their hands, referencing Jay-Z and Roc Nation's control over halftime show selections. Despite his initial frustration and public airing of his disappointment, Wayne clarified he has no animosity toward Lamar or Jay-Z, and even supported Lamar prior to the performance. Wayne now says he is no longer interested in performing at a future Super Bowl, feeling that the opportunity was unique and is now lost. He instead spent the halftime show playing pool rather than watching the performance.