Twenty years ago, the infamous “Nipplegate” incident occurred during the Super Bowl XXXVIII halftime show featuring Janet Jackson and Justin Timberlake. The incident, which culminated in a wardrobe malfunction resulting in the accidental exposure of Jackson’s bare chest, sparked immediate and lasting consequences.
During their performance of Timberlake’s hit “Rock Your Body,” a planned stunt to reveal a red bustier underneath Jackson’s top went awry, leading to the unintentional exposure that was seen by over 100 million viewers. The incident triggered a flood of complaints to the Federal Communications Commission, resulting in fines for CBS, the broadcaster of the Super Bowl.
In the aftermath, Timberlake faced public backlash and exclusion from professional opportunities, while Jackson’s career suffered. Both artists apologized for the incident, but Timberlake was widely criticized for abandoning Jackson and capitalizing on her misfortune.
The incident led to a public outcry, with many demanding justice for Jackson and calling for Timberlake to be held accountable. The controversy also sparked accusations of staging for publicity, which both artists have vehemently denied.
Despite the fallout, Jackson has maintained that the incident was blown out of proportion and that the two have since moved on. She has stated that they are good friends and that the incident was an accident.
The “Nipplegate” incident remains a contentious and memorable moment in pop culture history, sparking ongoing debate and calls for justice for Janet Jackson.