A startling incident unfolded during Kendrick Lamar's Super Bowl halftime show as a performer from the 400-member field cast was detained after unveiling a combination Sudanese-Palestinian flag with "Sudan" and "Gaza" written on it. The performer, whose identity has not been disclosed, stood on a car prop to reveal the hidden flag late in the show, prompting an immediate response from security personnel. The NFL stated that neither they nor the production team had prior knowledge of the performer's intentions.
The New Orleans police department is currently investigating the matter to determine relevant charges.
"Law enforcement is working to determine applicable charges in this incident," said a representative from the New Orleans police department.
The NFL confirmed the individual would face lifelong consequences for their actions.
"The individual will [be] banned for life from all NFL stadiums and events," stated Brian McCarthy, an NFL spokesperson.
Roc Nation, the entertainment company responsible for producing the halftime show, clarified that the act was not part of any planned performance and had never appeared in rehearsals.
The act "was neither planned nor part of the production and was never in any rehearsal," asserted Roc Nation.
Despite the disturbance, Kendrick Lamar's performance continued seamlessly, and the incident was reportedly not visible to audiences watching the broadcast. The NFL issued a formal statement regarding the breach of protocol.
"The individual hid the item on his person and unveiled it late in the show," according to the NFL.
The flag display brought attention to political issues concerning Sudan and Gaza, although the motives behind the performer's actions remain unclear. The incident did not disrupt the live audience's experience, showing the effectiveness of the event's security measures.