The Weeknd is the First Canadian to Headline the Super Bowl Half-Time Show Since 2003

The Super Bowl Half-Time Show is legendary – and it’s set to get a good dose of Canadiana next year as The Weeknd (whose real name is Abel Tesfaye) has just been named as the headline act for 2021.

It’s a major moment for the Canadian musician – who grew up in Scarborough, Ontario – as he follows in the footsteps of Beyoncé, Prince, Nelly, Justin Timberlake, Bruno Mars, Lady Gaga and of course, Shakira and Jennifer Lopez. He will be the first Canadian to headline the event since 2003 when Shania Twain appeared alongside No Doubt.

Speaking of the opportunity in a statement, The Weeknd said, “We all grow up watching the world’s biggest acts playing the Super Bowl and one can only dream of being in that position. I’m humbled, honoured and ecstatic to be the centre of that infamous stage this year.”

The show will be produced by Jay Z and his company Roc Nation (who also produced the Shakira/J Lo extravaganza last year). Jay Z praised the Canadian star in a statement saying, “The Weeknd has introduced a sound all his own. His soulful uniqueness has defined a new generation of greatness in music and artistry. This is an extraordinary moment in time and the Pepsi Super Bowl LV Half-Time Show is going to be an extraordinary experience with an extraordinary performer.”

The Super Bowl LV will take place in Tampa, Florida on February 7, 2021.