On Feb. 12, 2023, Rihanna took to the stage during the halftime show of Super Bowl LVII between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs in Glendale, Ariz. However, what was meant to be a triumphant return to the stage for the pop superstar quickly turned into a source of controversy.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC), which regulates communications through various mediums, received 103 formal complaints about Fox’s broadcast of the Super Bowl. The majority of these complaints were related to Rihanna’s performance, which viewers described as “rude” and “obscene.”

Some viewers took issue with Rihanna’s sexualized lyrics and her background dancers’ provocative choreography, with a few even likening the performance to pornography. One viewer from Roseburg, Ore., pleaded with the FCC to “put an end to this,” while another from Janesville, Calif., said they would not watch the Super Bowl again if it continued to disrespect the nation.

Despite the complaints, 103 is a relatively small number compared to the 540,000 that were filed in 2004 when Justin Timberlake caused Janet Jackson’s infamous “wardrobe malfunction” during their halftime performance. The incident led to a fine for CBS, which was later overturned after the Supreme Court refused to hear the FCC’s request to reinstate it.

While some viewers were offended by Rihanna’s performance, many others praised it as a soaring return to the stage for the pop star. Rihanna, who surprised viewers by revealing that she was pregnant with her second child, sang a medley of her hits, including “B- Better Have My Money,” “Where Have You Been,” “Only Girl (In the World),” “We Found Love,” and “Work.”

Regardless of the controversy, Rihanna’s star power remains undeniable. She will be performing her newest song, the Oscar-nominated “Lift Me Up” from “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” at the 95th Academy Awards on March 12. The Academy hopes that her built-in fan base and ability to bring shock value will help boost the show’s declining viewership.

This is not the first time a major televised event has sparked controversy. In 2022, Will Smith slapped presenter Chris Rock during the Oscars, prompting at least 66 complaints to the FCC. The incident also led to Smith’s 10-year ban from Oscar-related events and prompted the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to install a “crisis team” to respond to any untoward incidents that might occur during the ceremony.

In conclusion, while Rihanna’s halftime performance at Super Bowl LVII may have sparked controversy, it is ultimately up to individual viewers to decide what they find offensive or inappropriate. As with all live events, there is always a risk of something unexpected happening, and it is up to broadcasters and regulatory bodies like the FCC to ensure that the content remains appropriate for all viewers.

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