It's been 20 years since Janet Jackson's "wardrobe malfunction" during Super Bowl halftime show
Published: Jan. 31, 2024, 10:13 p.m.
On February 1, 2004, with the New England Patriots and Carolina Panthers in the middle of a dogfight, broke for halftime during Super Bowl XXXVIII.
Like Super Bowl halftime intermissions of the past, iconic musicians performed. While wrapping up his duet with pop star Janet Jackson, boy band member turned solo act Justin Timberlake ripped at Jackson's top, briefly exposing her breast. Though initially dubbed a "wardrobe malfunction," the incident became to be known as "Nipplegate." The live performance, seen by over 140 million people, drew criticism from viewers, the Parents Television Commission, and the Federal Communications Commission. Viacom, CBS’ parent company, was fined $3.5 million for the incident.
Justin Timberlake (left) and Janet Jackson (right) perform during the halftime show of Super Bowl XXXVIII at Reliant Stadium. The New England Patriots defeated the Carolina Panthers 32-29.Justin Timberlake (left) and Janet Jackson (right) perform during the halftime show of Super Bowl XXXVIII at Reliant Stadium. The New England Patriots defeated the Carolina Panthers 32-29.Justin Timberlake (left) and Janet Jackson (right) perform during the halftime show of Super Bowl XXXVIII at Reliant Stadium. The New England Patriots defeated the Carolina Panthers 32-29.Justin Timberlake (left) and Janet Jackson (right) perform during the halftime show of Super Bowl XXXVIII at Reliant Stadium. The New England Patriots defeated the Carolina Panthers 32-29.Justin Timberlake (left) and Janet Jackson (right) perform during the halftime show of Super Bowl XXXVIII at Reliant Stadium. The New England Patriots defeated the Carolina Panthers 32-29.Justin Timberlake (left) and Janet Jackson (right) perform during the halftime show of Super Bowl XXXVIII at Reliant Stadium. The New England Patriots defeated the Carolina Panthers 32-29.Justin Timberlake (front) and Janet Jackson perform during the halftime show of Super Bowl XXXVIII at Reliant Stadium. The New England Patriots defeated the Carolina Panthers 32-29.Super Bowl XXXVIII -- Houston, Texas -- Carolina Panthers vs New England Patriots -- Reliant Stadium -- Janet Jackson performs before the boob incident at half time.Justin Timberlake (left) and Janet Jackson (right) perform during the halftime show of Super Bowl XXXVIII at Reliant Stadium. The New England Patriots defeated the Carolina Panthers 32-29.
