NFL has shut down claims that they had instructed Eminem to refrain from taking a knee during his Super Bowl 2022 half-time performance. The rapper appeared to enact the symbolic stance as a tribute to former quarterback Colin Kaepernick, who made such a gesture throughout his 2016 season as a way to protest against racism.
Although it was widely circulated that Eminem’s actions had angered NFL bosses, spokesman Brian McCarthy was quick to deny this.
A Spokesman For NFL Claimed They 'Were Aware That Eminem Was Going To Do That'
McCarthy stated "We watched all elements of the show during multiple rehearsals this week and were aware that Eminem was going to do that."
The powerful moment occurred after the hip hop legend concluded his performance of fan-favorite track ‘Lose Yourself’, taking a moment to pause while the rest of the show continued around him. Fans were swift to commemorate Eminem, rushing to Twitter to share their delight.
One user exclaimed “Eminem kneels after NFL asked him not to. Don’t tell a goat how to behave #SuperBowl.”
While this belief about NFL has since been debunked, many other tweeters commented similar sentiments.
Fans Were Quick To Share Their Delight At Eminem's Actions
Another wrote “#SuperBowl NFL told #Eminem you can’t kneel he said f**k your rules I do what I want you can’t cancel me #HalfTimeShow #GOAT.”
As well as “Eminem defies NFL and kneels in solidarity with Colin Kaepernick during Super Bowl halftime show. Good on you, @Eminem #SuperBowl #SuperBowlLVI #Eminem #ImWithKap”.
Kaepernick was criticized by many for his refusal to stand during the playing of the national anthem, with many Americans viewing his decision as disrespectful and unpatriotic. Despite this, Kaepernick stood strong in his convictions, telling “I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color.”
“To me, this is bigger than football, and it would be selfish on my part to look the other way. There are bodies in the street and people getting paid leave and getting away with murder.”
His strength went on to inspire many others in the sporting profession, including the entirety of England’s football team in 2020 and Formula One racer Lewis Hamilton.
