Rapper Cardi B has been confirmed as the new headliner for the 2025 Global Citizen Festival, set for Saturday, September 27, on the Great Lawn in Central Park. She replaces The Weeknd, who withdrew from the event due to personal reasons.

The Weeknd announced his withdrawal on Instagram, stating: “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 understanding and support.” He had been scheduled to headline alongside Shakira, with additional performers including Tyla, Ayra Starr, Mariah the Scientist, Camilo, and Elyanna.

Cardi B expressed her excitement in a statement: “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!!!”

Hugh Evans, CEO and cofounder of Global Citizen, welcomed the announcement, saying: “We are incredibly grateful to Cardi B, who has joined the Global Citizen Festival lineup. 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 2025 festival will be co-hosted by Hugh Jackman, Adam Lambert, Bill Nye, Liza Koshy, and Danai Gurira, alongside numerous other presenters.

Cardi B’s headlining appearance comes just one week after the release of her sophomore album, Am I the Drama?, which earned Platinum certification on its release day. The Bronx native will also launch her 30-date “Little Miss Drama Tour” next year.

Tickets for the festival are available through the Global Citizen app, where they can be earned by taking action to help end extreme poverty. Fans seeking refunds after The Weeknd’s withdrawal are advised to check their email for instructions from Ticketmaster.