Kendrick Lamar Super Bowl LIX halftime show grabs massive number of FCC complaints, Drake beef included

Not everybody was a fan of Kendrick Lamar’s halftime show performance at Super Bowl LIX, as it drew in 125 FCC complaints against the rap superstar. The greivances ranged from the use of improper language, provocative dancing — and even included some who were upset that he used the performance to focus on his “personal vendetta” against Drake.

Each of these complaints were obtained by TMZ, who revealed that most of the complains focused on the lack of family-friendly material used by Kendrick Lamar during his set. Accusations of Lamar only using Black performers, the performance being anti-American, him grabbing his crotch too often, among other specific gripes were included.

However, TMZ revealed that there were at least 10 complaints that directed toward Kendrick Lamar’s performance of his hit song ‘Not Like Us.’ They were mostly upset with its suggestive claims against his rap rival.

“Kendrick lamar made fake false and scandalous claims that are unfounded. He sd drake was a pedophile on TV in front of million of ppl, do better, this is a sad day,” one complaint read, via TMZ.

Of course, the performance featured Serena Williams and her crip walk dance during the song in question. A one-time girlfriend of Drake, she wasn’t safe from the FCC compaints, either. One said that the tennis icon was promoting “gang affiliation” with her dance moves.

However, this is far from an isolated incident when it comes to Super Bowl halfitme shows. In 2024, Rihanna hauled in just over 100 complaints to the FCC, while Jennifer Lopez and Shakira totaled more than 1,300 during their performance in 2020.

While J-Lo and Shakira left K.Dot in the dust regarding FCC complaints, the Compton native’s presentation garnered 133.5 million viewers — the largest audience for a Super Bowl halftime show in history. He filled his performance with symbolism, a setlist filled with his greatest hits, and it’s no wonder that many viewers tuned in to see the landmark moments in the 37-year-old performer’s career.

On top of Williams’ cameo, his performance featured the likes of SZA, as well as producer Mustard, who’s been a frequent collaborator with the rap star over the years, joined him on the stage, as well. Not to mention Samuel L. Jackson as ‘Uncle Sam.’

All told, Kendrick Lamar’s performance was a history-making one, and the ratings reflect that. Whether those complaining were a fan of it or not, the numbers don’t lie, and it’s clear that he’s set the standard moving forward.