Stephen A. Smith is making it clear—he is not a fan of Serena Williams’ surprise appearance during Kendrick Lamar’s 2025 Super Bowl halftime performance. 

The outspoken sports journalist, 57, reacted strongly to Williams seemingly trolling her ex-boyfriend, Drake, 

while joining Lamar on stage as he performed his diss track, Not Like Us.

During Monday’s episode of First Take, Smith didn’t hold back his opinion, stating that if he were in a similar situation, it would be a dealbreaker.

“If I’m married and my wife is going to join trolling her ex, go back to his ass,” Smith said emphatically. 

“’Cause clearly, you don’t belong with me. What you worried about him for and you’re with me? Bye. Bye.”

His strong reaction sparked an immediate response from his co-host, Ryan Clark, who attempted to de-escalate the conversation.

“Stop it,” Clark interjected, before jokingly pointing out that any man married to Williams wouldn’t have much to worry about financially. “If you with Serena Williams, you’re going to be a kept man anyway. Don’t start that.”

Serena Williams’ Super Bowl Cameo Sparks Debate

The controversy stems from Williams’ unexpected appearance during Lamar’s halftime show, where she was seen crip-walking as he performed Not Like Us, a track widely recognized as a direct attack on Drake. Given the history between Williams and the Canadian rapper, her onstage participation was interpreted by many as yet another jab at her former flame.

Williams and Drake were rumored to have been romantically involved between 2011 and 2015, though neither publicly confirmed their relationship. Drake, however, hinted at their past in his 2013 track Worst Behavior and later suggested that his 2016 song Too Good was inspired by Williams.

In 2015, Page Six reported that the two had been romantically linked as early as 2011 and, while their relationship didn’t end on the best terms, they had managed to maintain a friendship.

A Divisive Reaction

Williams’ appearance divided fans and commentators. Some viewed it as a lighthearted moment, while others saw it as a deliberate dig at Drake. Smith clearly fell into the latter category, arguing that such actions were inappropriate for someone in a committed marriage.

“If you’re happily married, why are you involving yourself in anything related to an ex?” Smith questioned during the segment. “Your focus should be on your spouse, not someone from your past.”

Despite the backlash, Williams’ husband, Alexis Ohanian, appeared supportive of her performance. The Reddit co-founder publicly applauded his wife’s appearance at the Super Bowl, making it clear that he had no issue with the moment.

Super Bowl Halftime Show Steals the Spotlight

Lamar’s Super Bowl performance was already one of the most talked-about moments of the night, but Williams’ cameo only added to the buzz. The rapper has been engaged in an ongoing feud with Drake, and Not Like Us has been a central part of that rivalry. Seeing Williams join in on the performance amplified speculation about her stance on the conflict.

For Smith, however, the situation underscored a larger issue about respect and boundaries in relationships. His comments may have been exaggerated for effect, but they sparked a broader conversation about whether it’s appropriate to publicly engage with an ex in such a way—especially when married.

Final Thoughts

While Serena Williams’ appearance at the Super Bowl halftime show was brief, it made a lasting impression, reigniting discussions about her past with Drake and drawing strong reactions from public figures like Stephen A. Smith. Whether her dance was intended as a playful moment or a pointed message, it certainly became one of the most debated highlights of the night.

As for Smith, his stance remains firm—he wouldn’t tolerate such behavior in his own relationship. “Bye. Bye,” he said, making his position crystal clear.

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