Serena Williams, the legendary tennis star, made an unexpected appearance during Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl LIX halftime show, which quickly ignited discussions across social media. The appearance was a surprise to many, but what added an extra layer of intrigue was the timing of her cameo.
Williams was seen dancing during the performance of Lamar’s song “Not Like Us,” a track widely known for its diss towards fellow rapper Drake. Given the history between Williams and Drake—dating back to a brief romantic relationship in 2011—this particular moment seemed to suggest more than just a casual appearance. It sparked intense debate, with many questioning whether Williams was trolling her ex through her choice to make an appearance during a song that was notably aimed at him.
The Context of the Song
The Super Bowl halftime show performance was a monumental moment for Kendrick Lamar, who performed an array of his hits. However, it was “Not Like Us” that caused the most stir due to its association with Drake. Lamar and Drake have had a complicated relationship over the years, with several public disputes and diss tracks exchanged between them. “Not Like Us” stands as one of those diss tracks, and its inclusion in Lamar’s performance created a perfect storm of curiosity when Williams was seen on stage.
Many fans and commentators on social media noted that the timing of Williams’ appearance seemed too perfect to be accidental. Given the song’s context, many speculated that it wasn’t just a coincidence that Williams appeared during this particular track. Some fans suggested that Williams might have been playing along with the diss, perhaps as a form of playful interaction with her ex. After all, she and Drake have a well-known history, and her presence on stage at that moment certainly caught the attention of viewers.
Stephen A. Smith’s Reaction
One of the more prominent reactions to Williams’ cameo came from ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith, who voiced his opinion on the matter during a Monday edition of First Take. Smith, known for his outspoken and often controversial statements, made a bold comment about the situation. He suggested that if he were Williams’ husband, he would divorce her for making such an appearance, especially if it involved trolling her ex.
“If I’m married and my wife is going to join trolling her ex, go back to his a–, ‘cause clearly you don’t belong with me,” Smith remarked, leading to laughter from his colleagues. The statement was clearly a dramatic, tongue-in-cheek remark, meant to emphasize the perceived awkwardness of the situation. Smith’s commentary, while exaggerated for comedic effect, spoke to a broader sentiment among some viewers who felt that Williams’ appearance might have been in poor taste, regardless of the context.
Smith’s co-host on First Take, Ryan Clark, quickly responded, lightening the mood with a more playful take on the scenario. “If you were with Serena Williams, you’re going to be a kept man anyways. Don’t start that,” Clark joked, highlighting the absurdity of imagining Smith in a scenario where he would be married to one of the most successful athletes of all time.
The Backstory Between Williams and Drake
To fully understand the impact of Williams’ appearance during Lamar’s performance, it’s essential to consider the backstory between her and Drake. The two briefly dated in 2011, but their relationship was short-lived and largely kept out of the public eye. However, their brief romance was enough to fuel rumors and gossip in the media. Over the years, both Drake and Williams have moved on with their respective lives, with Williams marrying Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian in 2017, and Drake continuing his successful music career.
The history between Williams and Drake undoubtedly added a layer of complexity to the situation. Whether or not Williams intended to troll her ex, the public’s perception of her cameo was likely influenced by their past. The fact that she was performing alongside Kendrick Lamar, who has openly feuded with Drake, only heightened the speculation that this was not just a random cameo.
A Connection Between Lamar and Williams
Despite the controversy surrounding her appearance, there is a personal connection between Kendrick Lamar and Serena Williams that goes beyond any drama with Drake. Both Lamar and Williams grew up in Compton, California, and their shared background is an important part of their individual stories. Williams has frequently spoken about her roots in Compton, a community known for its rich cultural history, and Lamar has similarly referenced his upbringing in his music. Their connection to the area likely made the Super Bowl halftime show a particularly meaningful moment for both artists, regardless of the drama surrounding it.
Additionally, it is worth noting that Lamar’s performance at the Super Bowl was a major milestone in his career. Winning several Grammy Awards for his work, including accolades for “Not Like Us,” solidified his place as one of the most influential rappers of his generation. The performance itself was an event that resonated with many fans, not just for its artistic merit, but also for the broader cultural significance it carried.
Conclusion
While Serena Williams’ cameo during Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl LIX halftime show may have sparked a variety of reactions, it also illuminated the complexities of public relationships and the role that personal histories can play in shaping how moments like this are perceived. Whether she was truly trolling her ex or simply enjoying the performance, the controversy surrounding her appearance was a reminder of how interconnected the worlds of sports, music, and personal relationships can be. In the end, Williams’ appearance added another layer of intrigue to an already captivating event.
