This year's Super Bowl halftime show was nothing short of spectacular. Usher, along with an impressive lineup of star performers including Alicia Keys, H.E.R, Will.i.am, and Ludacris, took the stage to deliver an explosive performance that left audiences in awe. However, despite the constellation of superstars, many fans couldn't help but feel a sense of disappointment because one person was noticeably absent from the lineup: Justin Bieber.
In the days leading up to the big game, rumors were circulating about the possibility of the 'Baby' singer's involvement in the halftime show. Justin Bieber's last-minute arrival in Las Vegas on Saturday added fuel to the speculations, leaving fans hopeful that he would join his former mentor, Usher, on stage. Unfortunately, it didn't happen that way. Although there was footage of the 29-year-old singer dancing during the spectacle, he was simply grooving in the stands with his wife Hailey, without taking the spotlight.
According to sources, Usher personally reached out to Bieber to push for a collaboration. TMZ reported that the two musicians had direct communication and there were no intermediaries involved in their discussions. The outlet added that they were unsure of the outcome of their talks but confirmed that Usher was keen on having Bieber join him for what promised to be the most-watched Super Bowl in history.
However, we now know that Bieber declined the invitation. A music industry source cited by Page Six revealed that there is no bad blood between Usher and Justin Bieber. The source stated that Bieber simply wasn't feeling up for it and wasn't interested in participating. Despite Usher's efforts to persuade his former protégé, Bieber remained unswayed.
Usher played a crucial role in launching Justin Bieber's career when he was just a kid. The two shared a history together, and Usher was eager to create a moment that paid tribute to their past. While speculations arose regarding Bieber's decision, some pointed to his recent diagnosis of Ramsay Hunt Syndrome. This rare condition, caused by shingles affecting the facial nerve, can lead to facial weakness and hearing problems. Bieber has opened up about battling the virus and experiencing paralysis in his face. Although he seems to be coping well now, it's possible that he wanted to take it easy, especially considering the immense pressure of performing at one of the world's most-watched annual sporting events.
Despite Justin Bieber's absence from the halftime show, he seemed to have fully embraced his time in the stands at Allegiant Stadium. Fans have been delighted by his surprise performances at intimate venues, such as Drake's Toronto club, History. However, performing at a 2,500-capacity club is quite different from the grand stage of the Super Bowl.
As disappointed as some fans may have been, the absence of Justin Bieber from the halftime show did not detract from the overall excitement of the event. The incredible performances by Usher, alongside other talented artists, ensured that the halftime show was a momentous occasion. And while the internet buzzed with memes from crestfallen fans, it's safe to say that a star-studded performance still captivated audiences worldwide.
