10 Super Bowl Halftime Shows That Drew Record Viewership
Record viewership halftime shows share one thing beyond star power: timing.
The matchup has to hold attention, the broadcast has to reach peak distribution, and the performer has to pull in casual viewers who might not even care who is winning.
Recent years show how high the ceiling has gotten. Kendrick Lamar’s 2025 set set the current benchmark at 133.5 million viewers, edging out the long-standing Michael Jackson standard from 1993.
The trend kept rolling in 2026, when Bad Bunny’s halftime averaged 128.2 million, placing it among the top tier even with a dip from the game’s peak audience.
Which of these superstars had the best performance according to you, and which one do you wish you had attended?
Disclaimer: The viewership statistics cited in this article are based on official data provided by Nielsen Media Research and the respective broadcasting networks (including NBC, FOX, and CBS) as of February 11, 2026.
1. Kendrick Lamar’s History-Making Performance (2025)
Breaking every record in the book, Kendrick Lamar’s 2025 Super Bowl LIX halftime show pulled in a jaw-dropping 133.5 million viewers, making it the most-watched halftime performance ever.
Talk about starting strong!
His electrifying set showcased hip-hop’s biggest stage yet, proving that rap music commands massive mainstream appeal.
The Compton rapper delivered hit after hit, creating a cultural moment that transcended sports.
With stunning visuals and surprise guests, Kendrick’s show set a new standard for halftime excellence that future performers will struggle to match.
2. Michael Jackson’s Legendary 1993 Spectacle
Before Michael Jackson took the stage in 1993, halftime shows were basically glorified marching band performances.
The King of Pop changed everything, attracting 133.4 million viewers and transforming halftime into must-see television.
His entrance alone became legendary – standing completely motionless for nearly two minutes while the crowd went absolutely wild. Pure genius, honestly.
3. Usher’s Smooth Moves Take Third Place (2024)
Usher brought Vegas-style showmanship to Super Bowl LVIII, captivating 129.3 million viewers with his signature smooth choreography and undeniable charm.
Not too shabby for a guy who’s been making hits since the 90s!
The R&B superstar rolled through decades of chart-toppers, reminding everyone why he’s remained relevant for so long.
His performance featured surprise appearances and roller-skating dancers that had social media buzzing for days.
4. Bad Bunny’s Global Phenomenon (2026)
Making history as the first primarily Spanish-language halftime show, Bad Bunny’s 2026 performance grabbed 128.2 million U.S. viewers and sparked a 35% increase in Spanish language learning on Duolingo.
Wild, right?
His show generated 4 billion views across social platforms within 24 hours, with 55% coming from international audiences.
The reggaeton superstar reminded everyone that music truly has no language barriers.
Following his performance, Bad Bunny’s streams exploded by 175% in the U.S., reaching nearly 100 million plays in just one day.
5. Rihanna’s Triumphant Return (2023)
After years away from music, Rihanna’s Super Bowl LVII comeback drew 121 million viewers and became the ultimate mic-drop moment.
She literally performed while pregnant, casually revealing her baby bump mid-show like the queen she is.
Floating on elevated platforms high above the field, RiRi delivered a medley of her biggest hits spanning her entire career. The performance was equal parts nostalgic and groundbreaking.
Her show reminded everyone why she’s a cultural icon who commands attention effortlessly.
6. Katy Perry’s Roaring Success (2015)
Riding a giant mechanical lion onto the field, Katy Perry’s 2015 performance attracted 118.5 million viewers and gave us the internet’s favorite meme: Left Shark. Sometimes the unplanned moments become the most memorable!
Her candy-colored spectacle featured Lenny Kravitz and Missy Elliott as surprise guests, blending generations of pop music perfectly.
From beach balls to fireworks, Katy’s show proved that bigger is definitely better when it comes to halftime entertainment.
7. Lady Gaga’s Gravity-Defying Performance (2017)
Leaping from the roof of Houston’s NRG Stadium, Lady Gaga delivered a show that 117.5 million viewers couldn’t look away from.
Her opening featured hundreds of illuminated drones creating an American flag – technology meeting artistry at its finest.
Mother Monster blazed through hit after hit, showing how she could dominate a stadium without relying on guest stars.
8. Coldplay, Beyoncé, and Bruno Mars Unite (2016)
Super Bowl 50 needed something special, and boy, did it deliver!
Coldplay headlined with 115.5 million viewers watching, but Beyoncé and Bruno Mars stole significant spotlight with their surprise appearances.
Queen Bey debuted “Formation” during the show, creating instant cultural conversation that extended far beyond football.
Bruno Mars, on the other hand, brought his signature funk, and suddenly the stage became a friendly battle of pop titans.
Watching these three megastars share one stage felt like witnessing a once-in-a-lifetime collaboration that exceeded everyone’s wildest expectations.
9. Bruno Mars Brings the Funk (2014)
Before sharing the stage in 2016, Bruno Mars commanded his own halftime show in 2014, drawing 115.3 million viewers with pure energy and undeniable talent.
Starting behind a drum kit, he immediately showed he’s more than just a pretty voice.
The Red Hot Chili Peppers joined for “Give It Away,” adding rock credibility to Bruno’s funk-pop excellence. His performance was refreshingly straightforward – no gimmicks, just incredible musicianship and showmanship.
10. Madonna’s Material Girl Spectacle (2012)
Arriving like Cleopatra on a golden throne carried by gladiators, Madonna’s 2012 halftime show attracted 114 million viewers and proved the Queen of Pop still reigns supreme.
Her entrance alone was worth the price of admission!
Featuring guest appearances from LMFAO, Nicki Minaj, M.I.A., and Cee Lo Green, Madonna’s show was a masterclass in spectacle and star power.
Every second was meticulously choreographed, creating visual candy throughout.
At 53 years old, Madonna outperformed artists half her age, remidning that experience and determination beat youth every single time.
