Over the years, viewers have witnessed Super Bowl moments during the halftime show that have been memorable for various reasons.
In 2004, Janet Jackson and Justin Timberlake delivered a controversial performance that has continued to be a topic of conversation. At the time, Jackson joined Timberlake as a surprise guest, and a wardrobe malfunction ended up exposing her right breast.
Shortly after the incident was seen live by more than 150 million viewers, Jackson noted that the plan was for her to have a “costume reveal” during the show.
“It was not my intention that it go as far as it did. I apologize to anyone offended — including the audience, MTV, CBS and the NFL,” she said in a video statement, adding that the decision was made “after final rehearsals.”
While Timberlake didn’t acknowledge the performance at the time, he discussed the controversy in 2021 after The New York Times Presents: Framing Britney Spears documentary sparked new discussions online about his relationship with Britney Spears.
“I am deeply sorry for the times in my life where my actions contributed to the problem, where I spoke out of turn, or did not speak up for what was right. I understand that I fell short in these moments and in many others and benefited from a system that condones misogyny and racism,” the “Mirrors” performer wrote via Instagram at the time. “I specifically want to apologize to Britney Spears and Janet Jackson both individually, because I care for and respect these women and I know I failed.”
The record producer explained that a “larger conversation” needed to happen when it came to inequality in the “flawed” entertainment industry.
“It sets men, especially white men, up for success. It’s designed this way,” he added. “As a man in a privileged position, I have to be vocal about this. Because of my ignorance, I didn’t recognize it for all that it was while it was happening in my own life but I do not want to ever benefit from others being pulled down again.”
Jackson, who previously chose not to comment publicly on the performance, later stated that it was “blown way out of proportion.”
Scroll down to relive all of the past Super Bowl halftime show performances:
