Online Reporter
SANTA CLARA. — If the preliminary numbers hold, Bad Bunny hasn’t just broken a record, he has shattered the ceiling for what a global superstar looks like on America’s biggest stage.
From Katy Perry’s viral sharks to Kendrick’s lyrical mastery, the last decade proves that the 13 minutes between halves at the Super Bowl are no longer just a pause in the game; they are the cultural heartbeat of the year. On Sunday, the bar was raised to over 135 million, and whoever takes the call for Super Bowl LXI has a mountain to climb.
Total Viewers: — 135.4 Million (Preliminary Estimates)
Status: Pending Official Statement
While final Nielsen numbers are still being tallied, NBC’s primary telecast estimates indicate that Bad Bunny has shattered the all-time record.
His high-energy “Conejo Malo” production, featuring an all-Spanish setlist and guests like Ricky Martin, reportedly drew over 135 million viewers. It means that he officially dethroned Kendrick Lamar as the king of halftime viewership.
Kendrick Lamar (Super Bowl LIX — 2025)
Total Viewers: 133.5 Million
The Compton lyricist set a massive benchmark just last year. Lamar’s show was a visual masterpiece, featuring a medley of hits like “Not Like Us” and “HUMBLE.” His performance, which included guest spots from SZA and a viral moment with Serena Williams, was celebrated for its artistic depth and cultural impact.
Usher (Super Bowl LVIII – 2024)
Total Viewers: 123.4 Million
Usher turned Las Vegas into his personal roller rink. His performance was a smooth, hit-filled journey through his R&B catalog, featuring “Yeah!,” “Burn,” and “Caught Up.” The show was a masterclass in showmanship, reminding the world why he is one of the best entertainers of his generation.
Rihanna (Super Bowl LVII — 2023)
Total Viewers: 121 Million
Bad Gal RiRi returned to the stage in the most iconic way possible: floating on a platform while revealing her second pregnancy. Her solo set was a barrage of chart-toppers like “Diamonds” and “Umbrella,” proving she didn’t need guests (or even to touch the ground) to command an audience of millions.
Katy Perry (Super Bowl XLIX — 2015)
Total Viewers: 121 Million
Tied with Rihanna, Katy Perry’s show remains a gold standard for spectacle. From entering on a giant mechanical lion to dancing with the now-infamous “Left Shark,” her performance was a candy-colored pop explosion. Guests Lenny Kravitz and Missy Elliott added edge to a set list of anthems like “Roar” and “Firework.” — The Big Lead
