40. Up With People’s "Beat of the Future" (1986) - 70.1 Million Viewers
The performance group "Up With People" was a staple of the early Super Bowl era, and their 1986 "Beat of the Future" show drew 70.1 million viewers. Known for their relentlessly positive energy and synchronized choreography, the group aimed to promote global harmony and youthful optimism. While the "wholesome" vibe would eventually be replaced by rock and pop stars, the group was incredibly popular in the mid-80s.
Their 1986 set was one of their most polished, featuring colorful costumes and a "futuristic" theme that reflected the era’s fascination with technology and the coming millennium.
39. Pete Fountain and the "Beignets and Banjos" (1990) - 73.9 Million Viewers
In 1990, the Super Bowl went to New Orleans, and the halftime show celebrated the city’s rich musical heritage with "Salute to New Orleans." Featuring clarinetist Pete Fountain and singer Irma Thomas, the show drew 73.9 million viewers. It was a charming, traditional jazz set that felt authentic to the "Big Easy" setting. While it lacked the massive pop star power of later years, the musicality was top-notch.
Reports suggest the local crowd loved the tribute to their hometown heroes, and it remains a favorite for those who appreciate the roots of American jazz and blues music.
38. Chubby Checker and the "88 Grand Pianos" (1988) - 74.3 Million Viewers
In 1988, the NFL decided to go big—literally—by featuring 88 grand pianos on the field simultaneously. The show, which drew 74.3 million viewers, featured "Twist" king Chubby Checker and The Rockettes. The sight of 88 pianos being played in unison was a massive technical feat for the time, and the energy of the dancers kept the stadium moving. While it lacked a singular "megastar" focus, the sheer scale of the production was impressive.
It was a transitionary show that proved the NFL was starting to think about halftime as a large-scale visual spectacle rather than just a local band performance.
37. The 1994 "Rockin' Country Sunday" (1994) - 75.2 Million Viewers
Following Michael Jackson’s massive success the year before, the 1994 halftime show leaned into the country music boom of the early 90s. Drawing 75.2 million viewers, the "Rockin' Country Sunday" featured Clint Black, Tanya Tucker, Travis Tritt, and The Judds. The show was a high-energy celebration of Nashville’s finest, ending with a massive rendition of "Love Can Build a Bridge" that featured all the performers joining together.
It was a smart move by the NFL to capture a different demographic, and the success of the show proved that country music had a permanent place on the national stage.
36. New Kids on the Block’s "Small World" (1991) - 78.8 Million Viewers
In 1991, the Super Bowl occurred during the Gulf War, leading to a more somber and patriotic atmosphere. New Kids on the Block headlined a Disney-produced show for 78.8 million viewers, but the performance was actually tape-delayed in many markets to show a news briefing on the war. The set featured the boy band performing alongside hundreds of children in a "Small World" tribute.
While the music was classic teen pop, the show’s focus on "The Children of the World" felt appropriate for the time. It remains a fascinating snapshot of a very specific moment in American history.
35. Gloria Estefan’s Winter Wonderland (1992) - 79.5 Million Viewers
A year before Michael Jackson revolutionized the slot, Gloria Estefan headlined a "Winter Magic" themed show for 79.5 million viewers. The set featured Olympic figure skaters Brian Boitano and Dorothy Hamill performing on large sheets of synthetic ice. While the production was reportedly a bit "corny" by modern standards, Gloria’s high-energy performance of "Live for Loving You" and "Get on Your Feet" kept the crowd engaged.
Interestingly, this was the show that allegedly prompted Fox to air a special episode of In Living Color as counter-programming, which led the NFL to seek out bigger stars like MJ.
34. George Burns and Mickey Rooney’s Hollywood Salute (1987) - 80.6 Million Viewers
For Super Bowl XXI, the halftime show was a "Salute to Hollywood’s 100th Anniversary," featuring legends George Burns and Mickey Rooney. Drawing 80.6 million viewers, the show was a nostalgic trip through the golden age of cinema. It featured hundreds of dancers dressed as famous movie characters and a medley of classic film scores. While Burns and Rooney mostly provided "color" and narration rather than singing, their presence gave the show an air of prestige.
It was a high-concept tribute that appealed greatly to older viewers who grew up with the magic of the silver screen.
33. Shania Twain and No Doubt’s Pop-Country Fusion (2003) - 80.7 Million Viewers
Super Bowl XXXVII featured a unique mashup of genres, with country queen Shania Twain and ska-pop icons No Doubt sharing the stage for 80.7 million viewers. Shania opened the show in a dramatic black outfit, performing her hits "Man! I Feel Like a Woman!" before Gwen Stefani took over with "Just a Girl." The highlight of the set was a collaborative performance with Sting, where they performed "Message in a Bottle."
While the combination of artists seemed odd on paper, the chemistry reportedly worked well, providing a upbeat and eclectic show that appealed to a wide variety of listeners.
32. Elvis Presto’s Magic Act (1989) - 81.6 Million Viewers
In what is often cited as one of the "strangest" halftimes, the 1989 show featured "Elvis Presto," an Elvis-impersonating magician. Drawing 81.6 million viewers, the show was actually broadcast in 3D, with viewers encouraged to wear special glasses. The performance involved a massive card trick and a "sock hop" theme. While it reportedly didn't quite achieve the "cutting-edge" feel producers were hoping for, the sheer weirdness of the concept has earned it a permanent place in Super Bowl trivia.
It was the last of the "novelty" era shows before the league began booking major recording artists.
31. ZZ Top and the "Blues Brothers" Bash (1997) - 82.1 Million Viewers
The 1997 halftime show was a high-octane "Blues Brothers Bash" featuring Dan Aykroyd, John Goodman, and James Belushi, alongside rock legends ZZ Top. Drawing 82.1 million viewers, the show was a fun, lighthearted tribute to blues and rock and roll. ZZ Top brought their signature beards and fuzzy guitars to the stage for a raucous performance of "Tush" and "Legs." While the show was more of a "comedy and music" variety act than a solo concert, the energy was undeniable.
It was a crowd-pleasing set that leaned heavily into the "fun" aspect of the Super Bowl experience.
30. Diana Ross’s Helicopter Exit (1996) - 82.9 Million Viewers
Diana Ross delivered one of the most glamorous performances in Super Bowl history for its 30th anniversary, drawing 82.9 million viewers. Over the course of twelve minutes, she went through multiple costume changes, each more shimmering than the last, while performing a medley of Supremes classics and solo hits. The show is best remembered for its incredible finale, where a helicopter landed on the field and Diana hopped in, waving to the crowd as she was whisked away into the night.
It was a true diva moment that reportedly took months of planning and remains one of the most iconic exits ever.
29. U2’s Emotional Tribute to 9/11 (2002) - 82.9 Million
Less than six months after the tragic events of September 11, U2 took the stage for a performance that many remember as the most moving in halftime history. Drawing 82.9 million viewers, the band performed "Where the Streets Have No Name" while the names of the victims were projected onto a massive scrolling screen behind them. When Bono opened his jacket at the end to reveal an American flag lining, there wasn't a dry eye in the house.
It was a rare moment where a sporting event's entertainment felt truly significant and healing for a grieving nation.
28. Patti LaBelle and the "Indiana Jones" Adventure (1995) - 83.4 Million Viewers
Perhaps the most "unusual" show in history, the 1995 halftime was a Disney-produced promotional tie-in for the "Indiana Jones" ride. Drawing 83.4 million viewers, it featured Patti LaBelle and Tony Bennett caught in a scripted action sequence involving actors playing Indy and Marion. While the plot was reportedly a bit confusing for fans just wanting to hear music, the vocal talent of LaBelle and Bennett saved the day.
The show’s high-camp value has made it a cult favorite over the years, proving that even a "weird" idea can be memorable if the talent is big enough.
27. Phil Collins and the Disney "Millennium" Celebration (2000) - 83.7 Million Viewers
To ring in the new millennium, the NFL and Disney produced a grand, theatrical show titled "Tapestry of Nations" for 83.7 million viewers. Featuring Phil Collins, Christina Aguilera, Enrique Iglesias, and Toni Braxton, the show felt more like an Olympic opening ceremony than a typical rock concert. With a full orchestra and massive puppets roaming the field, it was a high-concept production that aimed to inspire global unity.
While some sports fans allegedly found it a bit too "theatrical," the vocal performances from the four superstars were universally praised, making it a unique and ambitious entry in the halftime archives.
26. Aerosmith and *NSYNC’s Pop-Rock Mashup (2001) - 84 Million Viewers
Long before "collaborative" shows were the norm, the 2001 halftime show brought together rock legends Aerosmith and boy band sensations *NSYNC for 84 million viewers. The show was a high-energy battle of the bands that also featured Britney Spears, Mary J. Blige, and Nelly. The grand finale, a star-studded rendition of "Walk This Way," remains one of the most chaotic and exciting moments in halftime history.
It was a perfect snapshot of the turn-of-the-century music scene, blending teen pop, hip-hop, and classic rock into one giant, glittering, pyrotechnic-filled celebration that left fans buzzing for weeks.
25. Paul McCartney’s Post-Malfunction Stability (2005) - 84.1 Million Viewers
Following the controversial 2004 show, the NFL turned to a literal legend to restore order: Sir Paul McCartney. Performing for 84.1 million viewers, the former Beatle delivered a set of universal classics that everyone from toddlers to grandparents could enjoy. His performance of "Hey Jude" resulted in one of the largest sing-alongs in Super Bowl history, with the entire stadium chanting the "na-na-na" refrain.
It was a calculated move by the league to provide a "wholesome" experience, and McCartney reportedly took the job with his trademark charm, proving that sometimes the classics are all you need.
24. Boyz II Men and the Motown Tribute (1998) - 85.3 Million Viewers
To celebrate the 40th anniversary of Motown, Super Bowl XXXII featured an star-studded lineup including Boyz II Men, Smokey Robinson, Martha Reeves, and The Temptations. Drawing 85.3 million viewers, the show was a smooth, nostalgic trip through some of the greatest songs ever written. The highlight was Boyz II Men’s flawless harmonies on "A Song for Mama," which reportedly moved many in the audience to tears.
It was a classy, well-produced tribute that honored the history of Detroit’s most famous export while keeping the Super Bowl audience entertained with high-quality, soulful performances.
23. Stevie Wonder’s "Celebration of Soul" (1999) - 88.5 Million Viewers
In 1999, the Super Bowl went to Miami for a "Celebration of Soul, Salsa, and Swing" that drew 88.5 million viewers. Stevie Wonder headlined the show, performing his hits while driving a "Wonder-mobile" across the field. He was joined by Gloria Estefan and Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, creating a festive, dance-heavy atmosphere that felt perfect for the Florida setting. Stevie’s infectious energy and timeless hits like "Sir Duke" reminded the audience of his legendary status.
It was a colorful, multi-generational show that successfully blended various musical traditions into one big, soulful party on the gridiron.
22. Janet Jackson and the "Wardrobe Malfunction" (2004) - 89.8 Million Viewers
The 2004 halftime show is arguably the most famous in history, but not necessarily for the music. Drawing 89.8 million viewers, the set featured Janet Jackson, P. Diddy, Nelly, and Kid Rock. However, the closing moment with Justin Timberlake led to the infamous "wardrobe malfunction" that reportedly changed the course of live television forever. The incident led to the implementation of the five-second broadcast delay and a shift toward older rock acts for several years.
While the controversy overshadowed the actual performance, it remains a pivotal moment in the history of American media and pop culture.
21. The Rolling Stones’ "Satisfaction" on a Tongue (2006) - 89.9 Million Viewers
In 2006, the NFL built a stage shaped like the iconic Rolling Stones tongue logo, and 89.9 million viewers tuned in to see Mick Jagger and the boys. Despite being in their 60s at the time, the band displayed an energy level that put younger acts to shame. Jagger sprinted across the massive stage while performing "Start Me Up" and "Brown Sugar." There was reportedly some minor tension regarding the lyrics of certain songs.
Some of their tracks were briefly censored during the broadcast, but it didn't stop the show from being a massive success for fans of classic rock and roll.
20. Prince’s Rain-Soaked Masterpiece (2007) - 93 Million
Many music critics still consider Prince’s 2007 performance the greatest of all time, though it ranks slightly lower in raw viewership numbers at roughly 93 million. Performing in a literal tropical downpour in Miami, Prince famously asked producers if they could "make it rain harder." He delivered a soulful, rock-heavy set that featured an iconic cover of "Purple Rain" while his silhouette was projected onto a massive billowing sheet.
Allegedly, there were concerns about the safety of electric guitars in the rain, but Prince played through it flawlessly, creating a mythic moment that has become the stuff of legend.
19. Bruce Springsteen’s "Step Away From the Guacamole" (2009) - 95.7 Million Viewers
"The Boss" brought the E Street Band to Super Bowl XLIII, delivering a blue-collar rock marathon that drew 95.7 million viewers. Bruce Springsteen famously urged the audience to "put the chicken wings down" and focus on the television for twelve minutes of high-octane rock and roll. His set included classics like "Born to Run" and "Glory Days," and he even performed a knee-slide that sent him crashing directly into a camera lens.
It was a no-frills, high-energy show that reminded everyone why he is one of the greatest live performers in the history of American music.
18. The Weeknd’s Sin City Hall of Mirrors (2021) - 96.7 Million Viewers
Amidst the challenges of 2021, The Weeknd invested a reported $7 million of his own money to ensure his halftime show was a cinematic experience. Drawing 96.7 million viewers, he opted not to use the field for much of the set, instead building a massive, glittering "Sin City" stage in the stands. One of the most memorable moments featured him wandering through a gold-lit hall of mirrors with a dizzying handheld camera effect.
The show concluded with a field full of "clones" with bandaged faces, creating a surreal and unforgettable visual that felt perfectly tailored for the television audience.
17. Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers’ Heartland Rock (2008) - 97.5 Million Viewers
In 2008, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers brought their steady, reliable brand of heartland rock to 97.5 million viewers. The show was a masterclass in simplicity, focusing on the songs rather than flashy pyrotechnics or guest stars. Hits like "American Girl" and "Free Fallin'" had the entire stadium singing along, creating a warm and inclusive atmosphere. Reports suggest that the high-drama "wardrobe malfunction" of a few years prior helped determine 2008's performer.
The NFL was looking for a "safe" but talented act, and Petty delivered exactly what was needed with class and impeccable musical skill.
16. Maroon 5’s Shirtless Controversy (2019) - 98.2 Million Viewers
Maroon 5 headlined Super Bowl LIII in Atlanta, a show that drew 98.2 million viewers amidst a period of significant social discussion surrounding the league. Adam Levine and his band delivered a set of their most popular radio hits, including "Sugar" and "Moves Like Jagger." The performance reportedly faced some criticism for being "safe," though it became a viral sensation when Levine ended the show by taking off his shirt.
Joined by rappers Big Boi and Travis Scott, the performance aimed to blend pop with Atlanta’s rich hip-hop culture, ultimately serving as a high-production medley of 21st-century chart-toppers.
15. Jennifer Lopez and Shakira’s Latin Flare (2020) - 103 Million Viewers
In 2020, Jennifer Lopez and Shakira teamed up for a high-energy, fast-paced celebration of Latin culture that attracted 103 million viewers. The show was a non-stop barrage of hits, featuring incredible dance routines that spanned salsa, belly dancing, and hip-hop. Reports suggest the performance was one of the most physically demanding in history, with both stars barely pausing for breath. Joined by Bad Bunny and J Balvin in supporting roles, the duo proved that their star power was global.
The show’s vibrant costumes and explosive finale made it one of the most visually captivating halftimes in recent memory.
14. Dr. Dre’s Hip-Hop Homecoming (2022) - 103.4 Million Viewers
Super Bowl LVI featured a historic celebration of West Coast hip-hop, led by Dr. Dre and an assembly of legends including Snoop Dogg, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar, and Eminem. The show drew 103.4 million viewers and was widely hailed as a "love letter" to Los Angeles. Set on a rotating series of white shipping containers designed to look like a neighborhood, the performance felt intimate yet massive.
It reportedly marked the first time the halftime show won a Creative Arts Emmy for Outstanding Variety Special, proving that the genre had finally received its long-overdue flowers on the world’s biggest stage.
13. Justin Timberlake’s Minneapolis Tribute (2018) - 106.6 Million Viewers
Returning to the halftime stage for the first time since 2004, Justin Timberlake pulled in 106.6 million viewers during Super Bowl LII. Performing in the chilly atmosphere of Minneapolis, he delivered a career-spanning set that included a controversial but visually stunning digital tribute to the late Prince. While some viewers allegedly found the projection of Prince onto a giant sheet to be a bit unusual, the overall energy of the show was undeniably high.
Timberlake showcased his triple-threat talents as a singer, dancer, and musician, ending with a massive selfie-filled dance party in the stadium stands.
12. Black Eyed Peas’ Tron-Style Spectacle (2011) - 108.7 Million Viewers
The Black Eyed Peas brought a futuristic, neon-drenched aesthetic to Super Bowl XLV, attracting 108.7 million viewers. Their set felt like a scene out of a sci-fi movie, with hundreds of dancers dressed in glowing LED suits. While the audio quality faced some reported technical issues that critics were quick to point out, the visual ambition of the show was undeniable. With guest appearances by Slash and Usher, the group managed to keep the energy high throughout.
It marked a significant shift toward modern, synth-heavy pop and dance music becoming the standard for the halftime slot.
11. Beyoncé’s Electrifying Destiny’s Child Reunion (2013) - 110.8 Million Viewers
Beyoncé’s 2013 performance in New Orleans was so powerful it reportedly caused a partial blackout in the stadium shortly after she finished. Drawing 110.8 million viewers, the show was a masterclass in precision and female empowerment. The most talked-about moment was the surprise reunion with her former Destiny’s Child bandmates, Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams. Seeing the trio back together after years apart was a major highlight for fans.
The reunion helped the show become one of the most tweeted-about events in history. Her fierce choreography and flawless vocals solidified her status as the ultimate modern-day performer.
10. Madonna’s Roman Empire (2012) - 114 Million Viewers
The "Queen of Pop" made a grand entrance in 2012, carried by dozens of gladiators for a Roman-themed extravaganza that drew 114 million viewers. Madonna’s set was a star-studded affair, featuring guests like Nicki Minaj, CeeLo Green, and M.I.A. While the show was mostly praised for its tight choreography and hit-filled setlist, it also generated some controversy when M.I.A. made an inappropriate gesture on live television.
Allegedly, this moment led to a lengthy legal dispute, but it didn't stop the show from becoming one of the most-watched musical events in history at the time of its airing.
9. Bruno Mars’ Funk Revival (2014) - 115.3 Million Viewers
At just 28 years old, Bruno Mars was one of the youngest artists to headline a solo halftime show, yet he pulled in a massive 115.3 million viewers. Starting with a drum solo, Mars displayed incredible showmanship that reminded many of James Brown or Prince. He was joined by the Red Hot Chili Peppers for a high-energy rendition of "Give It Away," blending pop, funk, and rock seamlessly.
Despite concerns that he wasn't a "big enough" star at the time, the ratings proved his massive appeal across demographics, solidifying his place as a permanent A-list entertainer in the eyes of the public.
8. Coldplay’s Colorful Collaboration (2016) - 115.5 Million Viewers
While Coldplay was the official headliner for Super Bowl 50, they shared the stage with superstars Beyoncé and Bruno Mars, resulting in 115.5 million viewers. The show was a vibrant tribute to halftime history, ending with a montage of past performers. While some felt the guest stars overshadowed the main band, the "battle" between Beyoncé and Bruno Mars on the field became an instant classic.
The overall message of "Believe in Love" and the colorful, flower-filled production created a feel-good atmosphere that resonated with a massive audience, making it one of the top-rated broadcasts of the decade.
7. Lady Gaga’s Rooftop Leap (2017) - 117.5 Million Viewers
Lady Gaga literally took her performance to new heights in 2017, starting her set on the roof of the stadium before "jumping" down to the stage. This acrobatic feat helped her secure 117.5 million viewers. Her set was a solo tour de force, featuring no guest stars—just Gaga, her piano, and a fleet of synchronized drones that lit up the Texas sky. Critics praised her vocal talent and high-energy dance routines.
And the broadcast reportedly saw a significant spike in viewership during her 13-minute set, proving her status as one of the premier live entertainers of the 21st century.
6. Katy Perry’s Viral "Left Shark" (2015) - 118.5 Million Viewers
Katy Perry’s 2015 performance was a technicolor dream that brought in 118.5 million viewers. From riding a giant mechanical lion to her "Firework" finale, the production was massive in scale. However, the show is perhaps best remembered for a costume-clad backup dancer known as "Left Shark," who appeared to forget the choreography. The moment became an instant internet meme, reportedly contributing to the show's enduring legacy in the digital age.
With special guests Lenny Kravitz and Missy Elliott adding some rock and hip-hop flair, Perry’s set was a perfectly balanced pop spectacle that appealed to viewers of all ages.
5. Rihanna’s Sky-High Revelation (2023) - 121.1 Million Viewers
Rihanna’s 2023 return to the stage was nothing short of a cultural event, drawing 121.1 million viewers. Floating on suspended platforms high above the field, the superstar delivered a medley of her greatest hits while dressed in a striking red jumpsuit. The show’s biggest talking point, however, was the subtle reveal of her second pregnancy, which was later confirmed by her representatives. This "surprise" element allegedly helped keep eyes glued to the screen as fans rushed to social media to confirm what they were seeing.
It remains one of the most minimalist yet visually stunning performances in the NFL archives.
4. Bad Bunny’s Global Takeover (2026) - 128.2 Million Viewers
In a historic moment for Latin music, Bad Bunny headlined Super Bowl LX, attracting 128.2 million viewers. Performing predominantly in Spanish, the global superstar proved that music truly has no language barrier. He was joined by icons Lady Gaga and Ricky Martin, creating a vibrant, multi-generational celebration of culture. Nielsen data suggests that the show peaked with the highest Spanish-language viewership in the history of the broadcast.
Despite some reported social media criticism regarding the language barrier, the sheer volume of viewers cemented Bad Bunny’s status as a dominant force in modern pop culture and an international powerhouse.
3. Usher’s Vegas Heat Wave (2024) - 129.3 Million Viewers
Usher brought the glitz of the Las Vegas Strip to the Super Bowl LVIII stage, earning himself a massive 129.3 million viewers. Celebrating 30 years in the industry, he delivered a high-octane set that featured everything from roller-skating to a full marching band. With special guests like Alicia Keys and Ludacris, the show felt like a massive party that spanned decades of R&B hits.
Reports suggest the "nostalgia factor" played a huge role in these ratings, as Gen X and Millennial fans tuned in to see the "King of R&B" prove he’s still got every bit of his legendary footwork.
2. Michael Jackson Changes the Game (1993) - 133.4 Million Viewers
Before Michael Jackson took the stage in 1993, halftime shows were often just marching bands or novelty acts. However, the King of Pop changed everything, pulling in a staggering 133.4 million viewers—a record that held firm for over thirty years. He famously stood frozen for nearly two minutes as the crowd erupted, proving he didn't even need to move to command attention. His set included "Billie Jean" and a massive "Heal the World" finale featuring thousands of children.
This performance is widely credited with making the halftime show the high-stakes, must-see global spectacle that it is today.
1. Kendrick Lamar’s Rap Revolution (2025) - 133.5 Million Viewers
Kendrick Lamar’s 2025 performance reportedly shattered every existing record, drawing an incredible 133.5 million viewers. Set against the backdrop of an intense year in music, the Pulitzer Prize-winning rapper delivered a masterclass in production that many critics called the "peak of the rap genre." Joined by special guest SZA, Kendrick transformed the field into a cinematic landscape, blending high-art visuals with raw, energetic storytelling.
The massive audience numbers suggest that fans were eager to see how he would handle the solo spotlight, and he clearly did not disappoint, officially becoming the most-watched halftime headliner in television history.