Album Drop
Cardi B Replaces The Weeknd as 2025 Global Citizen Festival Headliner: “New York, Let’s Get It!”
The 2025 Global Citizen Festival just got a major shakeup. After The Weeknd announced his withdrawal due to personal reasons, Cardi B has been confirmed as the new headliner for the annual event. The festival will take place on Saturday, September 27, on the Great Lawn of New York’s Central Park, drawing thousands of fans for a night of music and activism.
“I regret to share that, due to personal reasons, I am unable to perform at Global Citizen,” The Weeknd said in his Instagram Story. “I believe in their mission deeply, and thank you for understanding and support.”
While fans may be disappointed by his absence, Cardi B’s addition promises an electric performance that only she can deliver.
Cardi B’s Message to New York
The Bronx-born superstar couldn’t hide her excitement about headlining in her hometown.
“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,” Cardi B said in a statement. “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!!!”
Her performance arrives just a week after the release of her highly anticipated sophomore album, Am I the Drama?, which earned a Platinum certification from the RIAA on release day. Cardi B is also preparing for her 30-date Little Miss Drama Tour in 2026, making this performance a taste of what fans can expect on the road.
Cardi B’s New Album ‘Am I The Drama’
A Star-Studded Lineup with a Purpose
Cardi B will join a powerhouse lineup featuring Shakira, Tyla, Ayra Starr, Mariah the Scientist, Camilo, and Elyanna. The festival will be cohosted by Hugh Jackman, Adam Lambert, Bill Nye, Liza Koshy, and Danai Gurira.
“This one is about more than music,” said Hugh Evans, CEO and cofounder of Global Citizen. “We are incredibly grateful to Cardi B, who will light up Central Park in spectacular fashion. And we thank The Weeknd for his ongoing support to help end extreme poverty.”
Tickets for the Global Citizen Festival 2025 aren’t purchased in the traditional way. Fans can earn entry by taking action to help fight extreme poverty through the Global Citizen app.
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Those who already purchased tickets and wish to seek refunds will receive instructions via Ticketmaster email notifications.
The Global Citizen Festival isn’t just another star-studded concert — it’s an event rooted in activism, awareness, and collective action. Cardi B’s participation, fresh off her career-defining album release, adds both cultural weight and electrifying energy to a festival dedicated to real-world change.
With music, activism, and New York City’s iconic Central Park as the backdrop, Global Citizen 2025 is shaping up to be one of the year’s most unforgettable nights.
