Super Bowl Halftime Show 2026: Early Predictions and Rumors
Who will perform at the Super Bowl halftime show in 2026? Here are the early predictions, rumors, and what we know so far about the LX halftime entertainment.
Entertainment Correspondent
Super Bowl LX Halftime Show: What We Know
Super Bowl LX in 2026 will be one of the most anticipated sporting events of the decade. The halftime show selection is always one of the biggest entertainment announcements of the year. While the NFL has not yet officially announced the 2026 halftime performer, speculation and rumors are already circulating. For the history of all performers, see our Super Bowl halftime show page.
How the NFL Selects Halftime Performers
The NFL works with its halftime show sponsor — currently Apple Music — to select the performer. The process typically begins 12-18 months before the game. The NFL looks for artists with massive global appeal, extensive catalogs of hits, and the ability to put on a high-energy, visually spectacular show. Artists must also be willing to perform for free, as the NFL covers production costs but does not pay performance fees. See our full article on Apple Music's Super Bowl deal.
Top Candidates for Super Bowl LX
Names frequently mentioned as potential 2026 halftime performers include: Eminem (who has never performed at the Super Bowl), Bruno Mars (who last performed in 2016 and is at peak popularity again), Billie Eilish (one of the biggest global stars), Post Malone, Dua Lipa, and a potential legacy act like Madonna or Mariah Carey. Each brings a different demographic appeal and unique visual performance style.
What Makes a Great Halftime Show
The best Super Bowl halftime shows combine iconic songs, spectacular production, and memorable moments. Recent successes include Kendrick Lamar (LIX), Usher (LVIII), and Rihanna (LVII). Each artist brought something unique. The 2026 performer will need to balance broad mainstream appeal with genuine artistic credibility.
Where Will Super Bowl LX Be Played?
Super Bowl LX in 2026 will be played in the San Francisco Bay Area at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California. This will be the first Super Bowl in the Bay Area since Super Bowl XIX in 1985. The venue and the vibrant Bay Area entertainment scene will likely influence the halftime show selection. For more details, see our Super Bowl host cities guide.
When Will the Announcement Come?
Historically, the NFL announces the halftime show performer about 3-6 months before the Super Bowl. Expect an announcement for Super Bowl LX sometime in the fall of 2025. Stay tuned to our halftime show page for the latest updates. You can also follow the action on our news section.
Key Takeaways
- Super Bowl 2027 is scheduled for February 2027
- The Philadelphia Eagles are the defending champions (Super Bowl LIX, 2025)
- The Super Bowl draws 115–130 million viewers annually in the US
- A 30-second commercial spot costs approximately $6.5–7 million
- Tom Brady holds the record with 7 Super Bowl victories
Frequently Asked Questions
Super Bowl 2027 is scheduled for the first Sunday of February 2027. The exact date has not yet been officially confirmed by the NFL, but it is expected to fall on February 2 or February 9, 2027.
Alicia Torres
Entertainment CorrespondentSuper Bowl halftime show historian, entertainment journalist
Alicia Torres is a veteran sports journalist and halftime show historian who has documented every Super Bowl performance since 2001. Her work has appeared in national publications.
Related Articles
All news
Never Miss a Super Bowl Update
Breaking news, halftime show reveals, ticket drops, and game analysis delivered straight to your inbox. No spam, ever.
Join 85,000+ Super Bowl fans. Unsubscribe anytime.