Key Takeaways
- Ted Lasso actors appeared at the 2026 FIFA World Cup Halftime Show.
- Justin Bieber performed 'Everything Hallelujah' on the field.
- The halftime show featured performances by Madonna, BTS, and Shakira.
During the 2026 FIFA World Cup Halftime Show at New York New Jersey Stadium (MetLife Stadium) in East Rutherford, N.J., Ted Lasso actors made a surprise appearance. Jason Sudeikis, who plays Coach Jason 'Ted' Lasso in the Apple TV+ series, interacted with Justin Bieber on the field during the halftime show.
The interaction began when Lasso walked around the stadium with Brendan Hunt as Coach Beard, offering commentary and encouragement to the performers. Lasso's appearance was part of a segment that led into Bieber performing 'Everything Hallelujah,' a track from his album Swag II.
Bieber, known for his energetic performances, took the field with an acoustic guitar, seemingly nervous but encouraged by Sudeikis' words: 'All right, young man. Let’s go! It’s your big shot. OK. Listen to me. Go out there. Don’t be nervous. Nobody’s watching. Make us proud.'
The halftime show featured a mix of high-energy performances and quieter moments. Madonna, BTS, Shakira with Burna Boy, Coldplay, and the Muppets were among the acts that performed. The Ted Lasso and Bieber segment was shared by FOX, the network broadcasting the 2026 World Cup.
The halftime show ran for 11 minutes, combining various musical performances with a more subdued moment featuring Lasso and Bieber. The segment was well-received on social media, with FOX Sports sharing it on Twitter: '🚨 Ted Lasso and Coach Beard sub on @justinbieber at the FIFA World Cup Halftime Show 🔥'
The 2026 World Cup halftime show marked a significant first for football's biggest event. It was the first major halftime show in the history of the FIFA World Cup, which has been held since 1930. The inclusion of a star-studded halftime show aligns with the tradition established by the Super Bowl, which has featured halftime shows since its inaugural year in 1967.
While the Super Bowl Halftime Show typically opens with three slow-building ballads, including 'The Star-Spangled Banner,' 'America the Beautiful,' and 'Lift Every Voice and Sing,' the World Cup show had a different start. The contrast highlighted the distinct nature of each event, despite both being major sporting events that attract global attention.
The halftime show's blend of high-energy performances and quieter moments created a unique experience for viewers. It showcased the integration of popular culture with sports, reflecting the growing trend of entertainment in major sporting events.
All right, young man. Let’s go! It’s your big shot. OK. Listen to me. Go out there. Don’t be nervous. Nobody’s watching. Make us proud.
Jason Sudeikis as Ted Lasso, Actor
