IRVING, Texas — The recent rape allegations against rapper Jay-Z will not alter the NFL’s relationship with the influential figure or his entertainment company, Roc Nation, which has been instrumental in producing various NFL entertainment segments, including the Super Bowl halftime show.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell addressed the media after the league’s winter meetings on Wednesday, stating, “We are aware of the civil allegations and Jay-Z’s robust response to them. The litigation is currently ongoing, but from our perspective, our relationship remains unchanged, particularly regarding our preparations for the upcoming Super Bowl.”
The controversy arose when a woman, who had previously filed a lawsuit against Sean “Diddy” Combs for an alleged incident that occurred when she was 13 years old at an after-party, recently updated her lawsuit to include Jay-Z as allegedly involved in the sexual assault at that event.
Jay-Z, whose real name is Shawn Carter, has dismissed the claims as part of an extortion scheme and described the allegations as “idiotic” and “heinous in nature” in a statement issued by Roc Nation.
The NFL partnered with Roc Nation in 2019, focusing on initiatives for events and social activism. This partnership was renewed a few months ago, underscoring the strong working relationship between the two entities.
Kendrick Lamar is set to headline the Super Bowl halftime show at The Caesars Superdome in New Orleans on February 9. Together with Emmy-winning producer Jesse Collins, Roc Nation will co-executive produce the highly anticipated performance.
In an additional highlight, Beyoncé, who is married to Jay-Z, is scheduled to perform during the halftime show of the Baltimore Ravens versus Houston Texans game on Christmas Day.
Goodell further noted, “I believe they are becoming immensely comfortable not only with the Super Bowl but also with other events where they have provided us guidance and support. They have been a tremendous asset to our social justice efforts on numerous occasions, and we consider them valuable partners.”
