Stephen A. Smith: Lil Wayne Was Considered for NFL's Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show

ESPN's Stephen A. Smith revealed that rapper Lil Wayne was an initial candidate to headline the Super Bowl LIX halftime show.

Before Kendrick Lamar was eventually chosen, Smith explained that Wayne was "on the list" to perform in Thursday's episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show.

"I happen to know he was on the list," Smith said (3:00 mark). "I happen to know he was given consideration. But Kendrick Lamar is arguably the hottest thing out right now."

After Lamar was announced as the halftime show performer on Sunday, there were some questions surrounding Wayne's participation. The New Orleans native already has a connection to the game, which will be taking place at at Caesars Superdome in Louisiana.

Instead, Lamar was given the nod. The 17-time Grammy Award-winner has made headlines throughout the year for his feud with fellow rapper Drake. Lamar also has past experience on the stage of the NFL's most important game, as he was previously part of the Super Bowl LVI halftime show in Feb. 2022.

He briefly appeared in a concert that also featured Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige and 50 Cent.

While Wayne was reportedly considered for the opportunity, Lamar will be performing at the half of the Super Bowl in New Orleans.