The Global Citizen Festival has confirmed that Grammy-winning rapper Cardi B will headline this year’s event in Central Park on September 27, stepping in after The Weeknd withdrew from the lineup for personal reasons.
A High-Profile Replacement
The announcement ensures the festival retains its star power. Cardi B, known for her dynamic performances and global hits, brings a personal connection as a Bronx native performing in her home city. Organizers highlighted her role in energizing the audience and amplifying the festival’s advocacy goals.
“We are thrilled to welcome Cardi B to this year’s Global Citizen Festival. Her music and voice will amplify the urgent call for action on the world’s most pressing issues,” organizers said in a statement.
Advocacy Through Music
Now an annual fixture in New York’s cultural calendar, the Global Citizen Festival combines world-class performances with activism. This year’s edition will focus on pressing global challenges including climate change, poverty, healthcare, and education access.
The festival’s unique model allows fans to earn tickets by engaging in acts of advocacy—such as signing petitions, contacting policymakers, and supporting global campaigns. Organizers report that millions of actions have been mobilized since its launch.
Anticipation Builds for September 27
While The Weeknd’s absence disappointed some fans, Cardi B’s inclusion has been widely welcomed, with social media buzzing about her hometown performance. The lineup shift is expected to maintain excitement for an event that draws both massive crowds in Central Park and a global television and streaming audience.
With world leaders, activists, and celebrities participating, this year’s Global Citizen Festival is set to be a platform not just for music, but for mobilizing global action. For organizers and fans alike, the message is clear: the show will go on, with Cardi B bringing her energy to one of New York’s most iconic stages.
