Netflix is doubling down on its NFL Christmas Day broadcast with a lineup of major musical acts, aiming to replicate the success of last year’s surprise Beyoncé performance. This year’s event, dubbed “Snoop’s Holiday Halftime Party,” will feature Snoop Dogg as the headliner during the Detroit Lions vs. Minnesota Vikings game on December 25th.
Musical Lineup and Performances 🎤
Snoop Dogg will be joined by several guest performers, including the rising K-Pop infused trio Huntrix (Ejae, Rei Ami, and Audrey Nuna), as well as country star Lainey Wilson. The event kicks off with Kelly Clarkson, a lifelong Cowboys fan, performing her hit “Underneath the Tree” before the Dallas Cowboys vs. Washington Commanders game.
This year’s broadcast isn’t just about football; it’s about creating a festive entertainment experience that leverages the unique opportunity of Christmas Day NFL games.
Netflix’s move to secure high-profile musical acts underscores the platform’s ambition to become a major player in live sports and entertainment. The strategy is clear: draw viewers not only with the games themselves but with exclusive, high-quality halftime shows that generate social buzz.
Viewing Details and Schedule 🗓️
The Dallas Cowboys vs. Washington Commanders game begins at 1 p.m. ET, followed by the Detroit Lions vs. Minnesota Vikings game at 4:30 p.m. ET. Snoop Dogg’s halftime performance is expected to begin between 5:45 p.m. and 6 p.m. ET, contingent on the flow of the Lions-Vikings game.
All games and performances will be streamed exclusively on Netflix. This is a key point: Netflix’s strategy is to use live sports as a driver for new subscriptions and engagement on its platform.
The full lineup includes performances from Snoop Dogg, Huntrix, Lainey Wilson, and Kelly Clarkson. While no other acts have been confirmed, speculation remains high that Dr. Dre and Martha Stewart may make appearances.
Why This Matters: The Convergence of Sports and Entertainment 🎬
Netflix’s investment in live NFL games is a significant development in the media landscape. By combining premium sports content with high-profile entertainment, the platform is targeting a broader audience and challenging traditional broadcast models. The success of last year’s Beyoncé performance proved the concept works: viewers tune in for both the game and the spectacle.
This approach could reshape how live sports are consumed, with streaming services increasingly offering bundled entertainment packages to compete with cable and traditional television. The move also raises questions about the future of exclusive streaming rights and the potential for further integration between sports and entertainment.
Ultimately, Netflix’s Christmas Gameday is more than just a football event; it’s a test case for the future of live sports streaming.
