Cardi B has officially been announced as a co-headliner for this weekend’s Global Citizen Festival in New York, stepping in after The Weeknd confirmed he would no longer perform.
Organizers revealed the update just moments ago, with the rapper set to take the stage at Central Park this Saturday, September 27.
“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!!!” Cardi B shared.
Meanwhile, The Weeknd explained his withdrawal, saying:
“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.”
Global Citizen Co-Founder and CEO Hugh Evans expressed gratitude to Cardi B for joining the lineup, praising her as an electrifying performer.
“We are incredibly grateful to Cardi B, who has joined the Global Citizen Festival line-up. She’s an outstanding performer, who will light up Central Park in spectacular fashion. We wish the Weeknd support and want to thank him and his fans for all taking action with us to help end extreme poverty.”
The festival, hosted by Hugh Jackman, will also feature Shakira, Tyla, Ayra Starr, Mariah the Scientist, Camilo, and Elyanna. Fans can catch the show live on platforms including YouTube, Apple Music, Prime Video, Twitch, and iHeartRadio, with a special theatrical screening set for India on September 28.
The timing is particularly significant for Cardi, who just released her long-awaited sophomore album Am I the Drama? and announced her Little Miss Drama Tour kicking off in February 2026.
