Here's Why There Will Be No Guests During The Weeknd's Superbowl Performance
After weeks of speculation, The Weeknd has confirmed that no other performers will share his stage at the Superbowl LV Halftime Show. There have been rumors circulating in the weeks leading up to the event that Ariana Grande or Drake would make an appearance, however, those were completely put to bed after the "Blinding Lights" singer spoke to sports reporter Kay Adams.
In a clip shared on the NFL Network's Instagram, when asked if anyone will join him in his performance, the singer explains, "I’ve been reading a lot of rumors. I wouldn’t bet on it. There wasn’t any room to fit it in the narrative in the story I was telling in the performance. So yeah, there’s no special guests. No."
The Canadian singer—born Abel Tesfaye—is known for his theatrical performances and storytelling. Throughout music videos and other performances for his latest album After Hours, Tesfaye has appeared covered in blood and bandages. However, according to the New York Times, during a press conference, Tesfaye assured fans, "The story will continue, but definitely we’ll keep it PG for the families.”
It was also reported that the performance will take place, at least in part, in the stands rather than on the field, while still following COVID-19 safety protocols.
Other Superbowl festivities include a performance by Miley Cyrus, who is set to sing at a pre-game show attended by thousands of healthcare workers. Before kickoff, Amanda Gorman, the poet from President Biden's inauguration, will perform another original piece. Singer H.E.R. is scheduled to perform "America the Beautiful," while Eric Church and Jazmine Sullivan will duet the National Anthem.
The Superbowl LV kicks off Sunday, February 7 at 6:30 p.m. EST at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa Bay, Florida with Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers against last year's champions the Kansas City Chiefs.
