Global superstar Adele officially declined to perform at the 2026 Super Bowl halftime show, dashing hopes of fans eager to see her headline the iconic event at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
The decision, reported by HITSDD and shared widely on social media, comes after weeks of speculation about her potential involvement.
Sources close to the singer cite heightened safety concerns following the assassination of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk earlier this year, which has left Adele wary of high-profile public appearances.
The 16-time Grammy winner, known for hits like “Hello” and “Rolling in the Deep”, was reportedly in talks with the NFL and Roc Nation, the halftime show’s organisers, as recently as September 19, according to Page Six.
However, insiders told RadarOnline that Adele, shaken by Kirk’s death, feels she would face significant challenges when performing in front of an audience of over 100 million people.
“She barely leaves home except for work commitments,” a source revealed, highlighting her retreat from public life amid fears of becoming a target.
Adele’s hesitation isn’t new. In 2016, she turned down a similar opportunity for the 2017 Super Bowl, telling a Los Angeles crowd, “That show is not about music. I can’t dance or anything like that.”
Her focus on vocal-driven, intimate performances clashes with the halftime show’s high-energy spectacle, often featuring elaborate choreography and guest artists.
Despite attending the 2023 and 2024 Super Bowls to watch Rihanna and others, Adele’s interest has been more as a fan than a performer, often accompanied by her fiancé, sports agent Rich Paul.
The decision has sparked mixed reactions online. Some fans expressed disappointment, while others supported her choice, citing the intense pressure of the Super Bowl stage. “Adele doesn’t need to prove anything,” posted a fan.
Names like Taylor Swift and Miley Cyrus remain in the mix for the 2026 slot, with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell hinting at Swift’s potential involvement.
As the NFL scrambles to confirm a headliner, Adele’s withdrawal underscores the challenges of securing A-listers for the high-stakes event, leaving fans awaiting the next announcement.