Nigerian Afrobeats star Ayra Starr says she is still in disbelief after becoming the first African artist to headline an NFL international halftime show.
The 24 year old performed at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London on Sunday, October 12, 2026, during the Philadelphia Eagles vs Jacksonville Jaguars London game.
Reacting after her set, Starr said, “It was crazy! It was amazing! I feel like that was another person on stage. It was amazing, I’m so grateful. Ate that, yummy!”
Dressed in a purple corset and black skirt, she opened with “Heaven Baby,” her collaboration with Zayn Malik from her third album Starrgirl released in August, and followed with hits including “Rush,” “Hot Body,” “Santa,” and “Dangerous.” The game drew a sell-out crowd of over 61,000 and ended 19-17 to Jacksonville.
Ahead of the show, the two-time Grammy nominee told BBC Newsbeat that the performance itself was a message.
“At the end of the day, as artists, we speak for the culture and we speak for the people that listen to us. And we have to represent any way that seems fit, that they need,” she said.
Her performance was part of the NFL’s record seven halftime shows planned for the 2026 International Games across seven countries.
The league described her selection as recognition of her connection to London audiences and the global rise of Afrobeats.
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