Nicki Minaj Laughs After Jesse Collins Confirms Jay-Z’s Control Over Super Bowl Halftime Show

Nicki Minaj expressed frustration after learning that JAY-Z, as the head of Roc Nation, has the final say in selecting the Super Bowl Halftime Show performer. On Monday (September 16), Minaj reacted to an interview with producer Jesse Collins, who confirmed in Variety that JAY-Z is responsible for picking the event’s headliners each year.

“It’s a decision that Jay makes. Since we’ve been on board with that show, he’s made it every year, and it’s been amazing. He’s always picked right!” Collins said. In response, Minaj shared a laughing emoji on social media, hinting at her frustration.

Minaj had previously criticized JAY-Z after Kendrick Lamar was chosen to headline Super Bowl LIX instead of Lil Wayne, especially since the game will be held in Lil Wayne’s hometown of New Orleans. Minaj accused JAY-Z of letting personal grudges against her, Lil Wayne, Birdman, and Drake influence his decision. She wrote a fiery post on X (formerly Twitter), accusing JAY-Z of “denying a young black man what he rightfully put into this game” and claimed Lil Wayne was unfairly snubbed due to JAY-Z’s ego.

Lil Wayne also spoke about his disappointment, admitting that he had hoped to headline the show and was deeply hurt when the opportunity didn’t materialize. Minaj, in turn, offered words of support, emphasizing that Lil Wayne’s contributions to Hip-Hop would endure.

This controversy has fueled ongoing debates about the politics behind Super Bowl headliner selections and raised questions about favoritism and industry power dynamics.