In an unexpected turn of events, Lil Wayne made headlines during Super Bowl LIX, not for a halftime performance, but through a cleverly crafted commercial for Cetaphil that revealed the much-anticipated release date of his upcoming album, Tha Carter VI. Scheduled to drop on June 6, 2025, this announcement comes just days before the Super Bowl, stirring excitement among hip-hop fans.
The commercial, which premiered on February 6, showcases Wayne’s playful side as he addresses his disappointment over being overlooked for the halftime show. Instead of sulking, he embraces his role as a spokesperson for the skincare brand, humorously navigating “dry” and “sensitive” moments in life while consistently highlighting the release date of his album. As the ad culminates, viewers see Wayne defiantly declare he won’t attend the Super Bowl, with a sign reading, “DO NOT DISTURB ‘TIL 06-06-2025” accompanied by the handwritten title Carter VI.
The backdrop of this commercial is tinged with tension, as Lil Wayne has had a rocky relationship with fellow artist Kendrick Lamar leading up to this iconic event. After Kendrick was announced as the halftime show headliner, Wayne voiced his frustration publicly, revealing his aspiration to perform. The lack of acknowledgment from Kendrick only added fuel to the fire, leading to an exchange of subliminal jabs in their respective music. Kendrick later addressed Wayne’s disappointment in his album GNX, sparking a response from the Young Money founder.
Despite the tension, Wayne later reached out to Kendrick, wishing him well for the performance, indicating a willingness to put their rivalry aside. He expressed understanding of Kendrick’s lyrics that touched on their professional relationship, acknowledging the hard work that both artists have put into their careers.
Roc Nation CEO Desiree Perez revealed that Wayne was indeed in contention to perform at the Super Bowl but ultimately lost out to Kendrick, who she deemed a deserving choice based on his recent success and cultural significance.
The buildup to Tha Carter VI is palpable, with fans eagerly awaiting what promises to be another classic from one of hip-hop’s most influential figures. As anticipation builds, Lil Wayne’s commercial has not only delivered a significant announcement but has also reignited discussions about his legacy in the rap game and the intricate dynamics between hip-hop’s biggest stars.
