As expected, the NFL is making headlines during this upcoming Super Bowl weekend, but they’re not all positive.
On Tuesday, Jan. 29, the league announced via its communications channel on social media that the traditional press conference, in which the halftime performer promotes the in-game show, will not be held ahead of the 2019 game.
The statement from the NFL says, “The artists will let their show do the talking as they prepare to take the stage this Sunday.” It then promises that exclusive, behind-the-scenes footage from the performances and rehearsals from all artists participating in the halftime show—Maroon 5, Travis Scott, and Big Boi—will be available on social media after the game.
The full statement from the NFL can be seen below:
Many people speculate the reason for the press conference cancelation is so the NFL has to avoid taking questions about performers (Cardi B, Rihanna, etc.) who declined the opportunity to headline the halftime show in solidarity with Colin Kaepernick.