The most watched halftime shows of all time

Michael Jackson 31 Jan 1993: Singer Michael Jackson performs during halftime at Super Bowl XXVII between the Dallas Cowboys and the Buffalo Bills at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California. The Cowboys won the game, 52-17. Mandatory Credit: Mike Powell /Allsport (Mike Powell/Getty Images)

By Gordie Daniels

Turning Point USA’s alternative halftime show had about 6.1 million concurrent viewers.

The 2026 Puppy Bowl drew an estimated 12.8 million viewers across multiple networks and streaming platforms, including Animal Planet, Discovery, and Max. The event featured 131 puppies from 73 shelters across 36 states and territories.

Top 5 Most watched Halftime shows of all time: Bad Bunny had 135+ million viewers (estimated), 2025 - Kendrick Lamar: 133.5 million viewers, 1993 - Michael Jackson: 133.4 million viewers, 2024 - Usher: 123.4 million viewers, 2023 - Rihanna: 121 million viewers.

2015 (SB XLIX) - Katy Perry: 118.5 million viewers

2017 (SB LI) - Lady Gaga: 117.5 million viewers

2016 (SB 50) - Coldplay: 115.5 million viewers

2014 (SB XLVIII) - Bruno Mars: 115.3 million viewers

2012 (SB XLVI) - Madonna: 114 million viewers

Key Trends

Record Breaking: The 2025 and 2026 performances shattered the long-standing 1993 record held by Michael Jackson.

Digital Growth: Recent, high-viewer counts reflect increased streaming and global interest in the halftime performances.

Drop in 2021: Viewership dipped to approximately 100.7 million in 2021 before recovering with later performances.