The Weeknd Withdraws From Global Citizen Festival, Cardi B Steps In

GLENDALE, Ariz. — The Weeknd has announced he will not perform at the upcoming Global Citizen Festival in Central Park, New York, scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025. Cardi B will replace him as the headliner.

In a statement, The Weeknd, whose real name is Abel Tesfaye, cited personal reasons for his withdrawal. “I regret to share that, due to personal reasons, I am unable to perform at Global Citizen,” he said. He expressed gratitude to his fans and emphasized his belief in the festival’s mission to support children worldwide.

Cardi B expressed her excitement about stepping in for The Weeknd. “Central Park, I’m coming for you!!!” she tweeted. “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.” She highlighted the festival’s importance, stating, “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.”

The Global Citizen Festival, hosted by Hugh Jackman, will also feature notable performances from artists such as Shakira, Tyla, Mariah the Scientist, Camilo, and Elyanna. The festival will be broadcast on platforms like YouTube, Amazon Music, Apple Music, and iHeartRadio.

The event has faced controversy in the past, particularly following its 2023 edition when heavy rain led to significant damage to Central Park’s Great Lawn. In response, Global Citizen paid millions to restore the grass, prompting local politicians to call for future festivals to be relocated to stadiums or arenas to protect green spaces.