The final of the American football championship is such a grand event in the United States that it has a name: the Super Bowl. If millions of Americans follow this sporting event live on television, the event also has a worldwide craze, in particular because halftime is synonymous with a colorful outdoor concert.
Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, U2, Britney Spears, Aerosmith, Prince, The Rolling Stones, Madonna, The Black Eyed Peas, Maroon 5, Katy Perry, Lady Gaga… the biggest singing stars have been invited to perform during this most popular halftimer in the world. In 2019, it was Jennifer Lopez and Shakira who provided the show with a 14-minute show where they each performed their hits.
Jennifer Lopez disappointed to perform with Shakira
In a new Netflix documentary called “Halftime” which premiered at the Tribeca Festival this Wednesday, June 8, 2022, Jennifer Lopez looks back on her collaboration with Shakira. The 52-year-old singer lets loose and reveals that she was first approached by the Nation Football League and agreed to perform… only to learn that she would eventually have to share the stage with Shakira. Furious, she would then have said that it was the “worst idea in the world”.
“We have six fucking minutes” Jennifer Lopez then launches in front of the camera. “It was important, it wasn’t just a dance show, we had to sing our message.” she justifies herself by trying to explain that she wanted to be the first Latin star to do the show alone during the Super Bowl.
“Usually you have a headliner at a Super Bowl. That headliner builds a show, and if they choose to have other guests, that’s their choice. That was an insult there. to say that it takes two Latinas to do the work that an artist has done historically.” Benny Medina, producer of Jennifer Lopez, said in a side interview with Entertainment Weekly. He points out that when artists like Madonna and Lady Gaga headlined the Super Bowl in 2012 and 2017 respectively, they each had over 13 minutes to perform solo. Shakira and Jennifer Lopez had to share 14 minutes together. “If it had to be a double headliner, they should have given us 20 minutes” protests Jennifer Lopez.
Jennifer Lopez knocked out by internet users
Jennifer Lopez’s comments were unfortunately seen as a way of humiliating Shakira who did not complain and literally made the show despite the 7 minutes. On social networks, J-Lo has been strongly criticized following the broadcast of excerpts from her documentary which will soon arrive on Netflix. “You’re jealous because she sings better than you”, “Hands off Shakira”, “Coming from the girl who stole the titles of Mariah Carey and Christina Milian! You’d better shut up”, “But Shakira can sing and you no, that’s why you’re furious, she stole the show from you”, “At least Shakira can sing without retouching!” can we for example read.
Elizabeth Sall