Cardi B is stepping in as the new main act at the 2025 Global Citizen Festival, which happens this Saturday, September 27, right in Central Park.
The Weeknd shared on his social media, “I regret to share that, due to personal reasons, I am unable to perform at Global Citizen. Thank you to my fans for taking action with them, as I believe in their mission deeply. Thank you for your understanding and support.”
Hugh Evans, who helps run Global Citizen, said in a press note that Cardi B joining the show means a lot, calling her a “spectacular performer” who will really make Central Park shine. Evans also wished the Weeknd well and thanked him and his fans for supporting the fight against poverty.
Cardi B is super excited, saying, “Central Park, I’m coming for you!!! I can’t wait to be home in New York, and to bring my new songs and all the DRAMA to the Global Citizen Festival. This one’s not like other music festivals—this one is about coming together to help children around the world, and I’m so proud to support such an important cause. New York City—see you Saturday. Let’s get it!!!”
Fans think the lineup is wild this year, and it’s honestly pretty cool to see so many different artists on one stage.
Not only is Hugh Jackman hosting, but Shakira will be there too, along with Tyla, Ayra Starr, Mariah the Scientist, Camilo, and Elyanna. Oh, and you don’t even have to be in New York to watch—it’ll be streaming live on YouTube and some other places.
Cardi B just dropped her album Am I the Drama?, which fans have been waiting for since Invasion of Privacy. She also released a video for “Safe,” her new track with Kehlani, to celebrate the album.
