During the Super Bowl LIX halftime show on February 9, 2025, at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, a performer in Kendrick Lamar’s ensemble was detained after displaying a flag combining Palestinian and Sudanese elements, with the words “Gaza” and “Sudan” inscribed.

This act was not part of the Halftime planned performance and led to significant reactions from the NFL and the public.

Incident Details

The individual was among the 400-member field cast supporting Kendrick Lamar’s performance. Towards the end of the show, while standing atop a prop car—a black Buick GNX—the performer unveiled the concealed flag. After waving it briefly, he descended from the car and attempted to run across the field but was swiftly apprehended by security personnel. The incident was not broadcast, as the live feed remained focused on Lamar’s performance.

NFL’s Response

The NFL promptly addressed the situation, stating that the act was unplanned and unauthorized at Super Bowl Halftime. A spokesperson commented, “We commend security for quickly detaining the individual who displayed the flag. He was part of the 400-member field cast. The individual hid the item on his person and unveiled it late in the show. No one involved with the production was aware of the individual’s intent.” Consequently, the NFL has imposed a lifetime ban on the performer, prohibiting him from attending any future NFL events or entering league stadiums.

Production Team’s Statement

Roc Nation, the entertainment company responsible for producing the halftime show, clarified that the protest was neither planned nor rehearsed. They emphasized that all standard security protocols were followed during the event and that the individual’s actions were unforeseen.

Legal Implications

The New Orleans Police Department detained the performer but later announced that he would not face formal charges or a summons. As a result, the individual’s identity remains undisclosed.

Context of the Protest

The protester’s display highlighted ongoing conflicts in both Gaza and Sudan.

Gaza: The region has been deeply affected by the 2023 Israel-Hamas war, resulting in significant casualties and widespread destruction. A ceasefire began on January 19, 2025, leading to the release of hostages and prisoners by both sides. However, tensions remain high, with recent comments from President Donald Trump suggesting U.S. interest in purchasing and owning Gaza, further complicating the situation.

Sudan: Since the ousting of President Omar al-Bashir in 2019, Sudan has faced political instability. A civil war erupted in 2023 between the Sudanese military and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), leading to over 28,000 deaths and displacing millions. The conflict has also resulted in severe famine, with reports of families resorting to extreme measures to survive.

Public and Media Reactions

The incident has sparked diverse reactions. Some view the performer’s actions as a courageous stand bringing international attention to critical humanitarian issues. Others believe that the Super Bowl halftime show was an inappropriate venue for such a protest, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the event’s entertainment focus without political disruptions.

This event underscores the complex interplay between global political issues and high-profile entertainment platforms. While the performer’s actions have ignited discussions on freedom of expression and the role of political statements in entertainment, the NFL’s swift response reflects its commitment to maintaining the integrity and planned nature of its events.