The Weeknd is set to headline the 2021 Super Bowl Halftime Show.
The Weeknd
The ‘Starboy’ hitmaker has landed the highly-coveted performance slot for next year’s Super Bowl, which will see him take to the stage during the Halftime Show of the Super Bowl LV, which takes place on February 7 in Tampa Bay, Florida.
In a statement, The Weeknd - whose real name is Abel Tesfaye - said: "We all grow up watching the world's biggest acts playing the Super Bowl and one can only dream of being in that position. I'm humbled, honoured and ecstatic to be the centre of that infamous stage this year.”
He also shared the news with his fans on Twitter, where he wrote: “performing on the iconic stage. see you 02/07/21 @pepsi #pepsihalftime #SBLV (sic)”
Whilst Jay-Z - who is tasked by the NFL with advising on musical events - praised The Weeknd for his “soulful uniqueness”, which he hopes will bring an “extraordinary performance” to the Super Bowl.
He said in a press release: "The Weeknd has introduced a sound all his own. His soulful uniqueness has defined a new generation of greatness in music and artistry. This is an extraordinary moment in time and the Pepsi Super Bowl LV Halftime Show is going to be an extraordinary experience with an extraordinary performer.”
The halftime show is set to be produced by DPS with JAY-Z's Roc Nation and Jesse Collins as executive producers.
Hamish Hamilton, who has directed every halftime show since The Who in 2010, will also direct the ‘Can’t Feel My Face’ singer’s performance.
Brian Rolapp, NFL Chief Media and Business Officer, in a statement: "We are thrilled to have The Weeknd join us in Tampa Bay on the Pepsi Halftime Stage. Halftime Show performances have a history of excellence and creativity and we look forward to seeing what he will bring to Super Bowl LV.”
As of the time of writing, it’s unclear how the Super Bowl and its halftime show will go ahead amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, although the NFL previously announced that only 20 percent of seats will be filled.
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