The 2025 Super Bowl LIX between the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles was a spectacle filled with drama, controversy, and unforgettable moments—both on and off the field. This year’s big game had everything from Taylor Swift’s surprising reception to Jalen Hurts’ bold fashion statement and Kendrick Lamar’s electrifying halftime show. Here’s a breakdown of the most talked-about highlights from the night.
Taylor Swift’s Unexpected Boos at the Super Bowl
Pop superstar Taylor Swift, a lifelong Eagles fan, found herself in unfamiliar territory during the game. Swift, who was in attendance to support her boyfriend, Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, was shown on the Jumbotron at the Caesars Superdome—only to be met with loud boos from the crowd. The moment, captured on video, showed Swift looking “surprised and mildly amused,” according to ProFootballTalk’s Mike Florio.
While Swift is no stranger to adoring fans at her concerts, the hostile reception from football fans was a stark contrast. Whether the boos were directed at her allegiance to the Chiefs or simply playful banter, Swift took it in stride, proving once again why she’s one of the most resilient figures in pop culture.
Jalen Hurts’ “Banned” Cleats: A Nod to Michael Jordan
Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts made headlines before the game even started, thanks to his bold fashion choice. Hurts took the field wearing a pair of Air Jordan Retro High ’85 ‘Bred Banned’ cleats, violating the NFL’s uniform policy. The move was a nod to Michael Jordan’s infamous “banned” sneakers from the 1980s, which Nike famously paid fines for.
True to form, Jordan Brand announced they would cover Hurts’ $5,628 fine, stating, “You can’t ban greatness.” The cleats, paired with Hurts’ stellar performance, became a symbol of defiance and style, further cementing his status as one of the league’s most marketable stars.
Controversial Calls and Coach Sirianni’s Fury
The game itself was not without controversy. Early in the first quarter, a questionable offensive pass interference call on Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown negated a significant gain, drawing the ire of head coach Nick Sirianni. Cameras caught Sirianni tearing into the referee, calling the decision “terrible.”
The call sparked debates among fans and analysts, with many arguing that such a pivotal penalty should not have been called in a championship game. Despite the early setback, the Eagles fought hard, keeping the game competitive until the final whistle.
Kendrick Lamar and SZA Deliver a Halftime Show for the Ages
While the game provided plenty of drama, the halftime show was a masterclass in entertainment. Kendrick Lamar, fresh off winning five Grammy Awards, headlined the performance with a setlist that included hits like “Not Like Us,” “HUMBLE.,” and “Alright.” Lamar was joined by fellow Grammy winner SZA, who added her signature R&B flair to the show.
The performance opened with a surprise appearance by Samuel L. Jackson as “Uncle Sam,” setting the stage for Lamar’s politically charged and visually stunning set. The duo’s collaboration was a highlight of the night, leaving fans and critics alike raving about one of the best halftime shows in recent memory.
Jon Batiste’s National Anthem and Josh Allen’s Tribute
Pre-game festivities kicked off with Jon Batiste’s rendition of the National Anthem, which clocked in at 1 minute and 59 seconds—just under the FanDuel Sportsbook’s over/under of 120.5 seconds. Batiste’s soulful performance set the tone for an unforgettable night.
Meanwhile, Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen was celebrated in a heartwarming commercial by his alma mater, the University of Wyoming. The ad, titled “Where Real MVPs Are Made,” highlighted Allen’s journey from an under-recruited high school player to NFL stardom, resonating with fans who love a good underdog story.
The Bigger Picture: A Super Bowl to Remember
Super Bowl LIX was more than just a football game—it was a cultural event that brought together music, fashion, and sports in a way only the Super Bowl can. From Taylor Swift’s viral moment to Jalen Hurts’ sneaker rebellion and Kendrick Lamar’s show-stopping performance, this year’s game will be talked about for years to come.
Whether you were tuning in for the touchdowns, the halftime show, or the drama, Super Bowl LIX delivered on all fronts. And as the confetti settled in New Orleans, one thing was clear: this was a night where sports and pop culture collided in the most spectacular way.