Inappropriate lyrics, vulgar dance moves: Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl show sparks 100s of complaints, fuels Drake drama

Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl Halftime Show is back in headlines—not just for his electrifying performance but also for the controversy it stirred.

The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC), an independent agency that regulates communications, has received multiple complaints from viewers about inappropriate lyrics, raunchy dance moves, and apparent anti-American themes.

These complaints have added to the buzz surrounding Lamar amid his ongoing feud with Drake.

As fans dissect every moment, here's a closer look at the backlash and what it means for future halftime shows.

What do FCC complaints say?

According to TMZ Sports, there were about 125 complaints sent to the FCC about Kendrick Lamar's February 9 performance being “far from family-friendly.”

Several viewers accused K Dot of having bad language, using only Black performers and being divisive with his set, with many making note of the split American flag visual at one point in the show.

There were plenty of criticisms about crotch-grabbing moves throughout the performance as well.

At least ten complaints were specifically about Kendrick using his platform to go after his arch nemesis, Drake – with one even going as far as claiming he used the moment to focus on a “personal vendetta”.

Critics wrote Kendrick accused Drake of straight-up being a paedophile during his rendition of “Not Like Us”, while another said, “Kendrick Lamar made fake false and scandalous claims that are unfounded. He said Drake was a paedophile on TV in front of millions of people. Do better; this is a sad day.”

Kendrick's show was reportedly viewed by 133.5 million people.

Serena Williams, Kanye West face the heat

Kendrick Lamar wasn't the only one who was criticised for Super Bowl show. Serena Williams also faced the heat from the viewers for being involved and promoting “gang affiliation”.

The FCC also received two complaints about Kanye West's commercial, which aired in three markets.

Unlike Kendrick, Rihanna's 2024 halftime show drew just over 100 complaints, while Jennifer Lopez and Shakira's 2020 performance sparked more than 1,300.