Jay-Z is the clear frontrunner to headline the Super Bowl 2027 halftime show, according to bookmakers, with the rap legend reportedly set to announce the news during a performance in Los Angeles this weekend.
The 56-year-old, real name Shawn Carter, has been celebrating the 30th anniversary of his debut album Reasonable Doubt with a series of special performances, reuniting with collaborators including Rihanna, Alicia Keys and his wife Beyoncé.
Odds and contenders
William Hill shared odds with Metro in August that placed Jay-Z as the top favourite at evens (1/1). Justin Bieber follows at 2/1 after his World Cup closing show performance this summer, with Miley Cyrus at 3/1 and Billie Eilish and Sabrina Carpenter at 4/1.
A spokesperson for the bookies said: 'Amid speculation that Jay-Z is one of the leading candidates to headline the Super Bowl LXI Halftime Show, we're quoting even money about the American rap sensation to take centre stage at the SoFi Stadium in California next year.'
'The timing fits well with his ongoing 30th Anniversary Tour and it could be the perfect end to a memorable run for him.'
Curator and performer
Jay-Z has curated the NFL's music event for nearly a decade, bringing artists like Kendrick Lamar, Justin Timberlake, Jennifer Lopez, Shakira and Lady Gaga to the field. According to Puck, he has now picked himself to headline, with an announcement possible this weekend in Los Angeles.
In 2024, Jay-Z told Entertainment Tonight: 'I thought it would be selfish to pick myself too early.' He has previously teased fans with a coy 'maybe one day' when asked about headlining.
This summer, Jay-Z performed at the Roots Picnic festival and hosted a three-night residency at Yankee Stadium. He also played two nights at London's Tottenham Stadium on September 4 and 5, with special guests including The Fugees, Giggs and Dave, performing hits like Big Pimpin', Empire State of Mind and Run This Town.
