Kendrick Lamar has earned four Emmy nominations for his jaw-dropping Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show. The nominations, part of the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards, highlight his ongoing cultural impact and creative vision.
A Record-Breaking Spectacle
The Apple Music–produced performance aired on February 9, 2025, in New Orleans. It became the most-watched halftime show ever, drawing 133.5 million viewers. Presented by Roc Nation and Jesse Collins Entertainment, the production featured guest appearances from SZA, Samuel L. Jackson, Mustard, and Serena Williams.
Four Key Emmy Categories
The show received Emmy nods in four prominent categories:
- Outstanding Variety Special (Live)
- Outstanding Directing for a Variety Special
- Outstanding Music Direction
- Outstanding Choreography (Variety/Reality)
Roc Nation CEO Desiree Perez said, “These four nominations are a testament to the collaboration between all involved … it elevated the halftime show to new heights. We’re so proud,” highlighting the collective effort behind the production.
Legacy Meets Leadership
Lamar is no stranger to Emmy success. He won an Emmy in 2022 for the Super Bowl LVI halftime show alongside Dr. Dre, Eminem, Snoop Dogg, and Mary J. Blige. His latest nominations continue a legacy of critical acclaim and live-event excellence.
The Super Bowl performance featured Lamar’s controversial track “Not Like Us,” a pointed Drake diss. At the time, social media buzzed over the moment, and many praised its boldness.This fusion of cultural commentary, star-studded cameos, and tightly choreographed production helped secure multiple Emmy nods.
Grammy Wins Set the Tone
Those Grammy victories earlier this year—including five wins for “Not Like Us” on February 3, 2025—added momentum behind Lamar’s Emmy recognition. The Super Bowl set and its Grammy sweep emphasized his impact on both live production and recorded music.
Nods Beyond Kendrick
Other music-stars also excelled in Emmy nominations. Beyoncé racked up four nods for her Christmas Day halftime show, including directing and production categories. She’s set to compete head-to-head with Lamar for Outstanding Variety Special (Live), along with Jay‑Z, SNL 50 events, and the Oscars.
The Emmy nominees were announced on July 15, 2025. The Primetime Emmy ceremony will take place on September 14, 2025, hosted by Nate Bargatze in Los Angeles. Creative Arts winners, including those for Lamar’s categories, will be revealed September 6–7.