Cardi B Joins Shakira at Global Citizen Festival as The Weeknd Steps Down

Cardi B Steps Up as The Weeknd Exits: What’s Behind the Shake-Up?

The Global Citizen Festival—a magnet for music lovers, activists, and global leaders—returns to New York City’s iconic Central Park on September 27, 2025, with a headline lineup that’s making waves for all the right reasons. In a dramatic turn just days before the big event, The Weeknd, initially billed as a headliner, announced his withdrawal due to “personal reasons.” Stepping into the spotlight in his place: Cardi B, the Bronx-born rapper whose star power and passionate activism promise to electrify the Great Lawn.

The Weeknd’s sudden exit sent ripples through fans and organizers alike. In a heartfelt social media post, he explained, “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.” While the details remain private, his statement underscored a genuine connection to the cause—ending extreme poverty worldwide. (Hollywood Reporter)

Shakira, Cardi B, and a Global Cast: A Festival for More Than Music

With The Weeknd’s departure, Cardi B’s addition brings a new surge of anticipation. The timing couldn’t be more perfect—she’s on the cusp of releasing her long-awaited sophomore album, Am I The Drama?, and eager to “bring all the DRAMA” to her home city. “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 announced. “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!!!” (Elle)

Joining Cardi B on stage, Colombian superstar Shakira will co-headline, continuing her tradition of blending music with activism. The festival’s supporting acts include Tyla, Ayra Starr, Mariah the Scientist, and Camilo, each bringing their own unique sound and following. But it’s not just about the music—Global Citizen Festival is known for its constellation of influential speakers and hosts, all united by a common goal.

This year, the festival will be hosted by Hugh Jackman, with co-hosts ranging from science communicator Bill Nye to actors Adam Lambert, Danai Gurira, and Liza Koshy. The speaker list is a who’s who of global voices: Kristen Bell, Tony Goldwyn, Laurie Hernandez, Nate Burleson, Vladimir Duthiers, and advocates from across continents, including Lydia Kekeli Amenyaglo and Taily Terena.

Tickets, Livestream, and Global Impact: How to Join the Movement

Unlike traditional concerts, the Global Citizen Festival ties access to activism. Tickets aren’t just for sale; fans can earn free entry by taking action on the Global Citizen app—supporting causes from global education to environmental protection. For those seeking a VIP experience, tickets are available via Ticketmaster. And for the millions unable to gather in Central Park, the event will be streamed live on YouTube and Apple Music, ensuring the message—and the music—reach far beyond New York.

Doors open at 2 P.M., with performances running from 4 P.M. until 10 P.M. The energy is expected to be palpable, fueled by a sense of purpose that transcends entertainment. As Global Citizen CEO and co-founder Hugh Evans put it: “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.”

At its heart, the Global Citizen Festival is more than a music event. It’s the world’s largest movement to end extreme poverty, uniting everyday advocates, celebrities, and policymakers in a shared effort to make a tangible difference. Since its inception, the festival has harnessed the power of pop culture to encourage meaningful action—from petitioning governments to supporting frontline organizations.

A Tradition of Music With a Mission

Since its first edition, the Global Citizen Festival has carved out a unique place in the music world. Performers aren’t just there to entertain—they’re expected to use their platforms for advocacy, urging fans to take action on issues like hunger, health, education, and climate change. The festival’s impact is measured not just in ticket sales or streaming numbers, but in the millions of actions taken by fans and the billions of dollars pledged by governments and corporations in response.

For Cardi B, the moment is personal—a return to New York, a city that shaped her, and a chance to lend her voice to a cause she believes in. For Shakira, it’s another chapter in her long-standing commitment to global education and children’s rights. For every artist, activist, and attendee, it’s an opportunity to be part of something bigger—a global chorus demanding change.

As the sun sets over Central Park on September 27, the Great Lawn will become a stage not just for chart-topping hits, but for hope, unity, and the belief that music can move the world.

In the end, the 2025 Global Citizen Festival is a testament to the evolving power of music as a force for social good. Even as the lineup shifts, its core mission remains intact: bringing together diverse voices to inspire action. Cardi B’s addition underscores that when music meets purpose, the world listens—and sometimes, real change begins with a single, shared beat.