CBS has announced performances and player honorees for THE SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25TH ANNIVERSARY, (previously known as the “Super Bowl Gospel Celebration”), airing Saturday, Feb. 10 (8:00-9:00 PM, ET/PT). Cedric the Entertainer and Tichina Arnold of CBS’ THE NEIGHBORHOOD will host.
Co-host Nate Burleson, who also serves as an analyst on THE NFL TODAY, will be honored during the special with the Lifetime of Inspiration Award. The honor will celebrate Burleson’s substantial impact on the NFL and people of faith, as well as recognize his contributions to media, sports, philanthropy and business. This accolade has been bestowed six times in the event’s 25-year history, recognizing truly exceptional individuals in football who embody excellence, resilience, gratitude and inspiration, both on and off the field. Previous recipients include Tony Dungy (2009), Ray Lewis (2013), Tim Brown (2015), Troy Vincent (2017) and Deion Sanders (2022).
Additionally, the special will feature a performance lineup led by Earth, Wind & Fire, Kirk Franklin, Mary Mary and Robin Thicke. The telecast will also include a performance by The Players Choir. This all-player ensemble has become a staple of Super Bowl weekend festivities, captivating audiences with its powerful harmonies and unique blend of NFL talent for 16 seasons. Additional performers will be announced at a later date.
The show will also pay tribute to outstanding NFL players for their remarkable contributions on and off the field. The following players will be honored for their exceptional achievements:
- Rayne “Dak” Prescott, Dallas Cowboys (QB), will receive the prestigious Faith in Action Award for his unwavering commitment to philanthropy and community service through his Faith, Fight, Finish Foundation, improving the lives of numerous families facing adversity.
- Damar Hamlin, Buffalo Bills (S), will be presented with the New Beginnings Award, recognizing his dedication, resilience and inspiring journey in overcoming obstacles to achieve success.
- Markquese Bell, Dallas Cowboys (LB), will be honored as the HBCU Player of the Year, celebrating his remarkable achievements and impact while representing Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
For a quarter-century THE SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25TH ANNIVERSARY has captured the hearts of millions through the shared love of music, faith and the exhilaration of football. Bridging cultures and igniting inspiration, the Super Bowl LVIII-sanctioned special brings NFL players, award-winning artists and acclaimed musicians from diverse genres onto a single stage. The result is an unforgettable evening that transcends boundaries and remains the sole multicultural and inspirational program sanctioned by the NFL during the electrifying Super Bowl week.
THE SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25TH ANNIVERSARY is executive produced by Melanie Few, with Valarie Benning Thompson serving as producer. Veteran television creative Leon Knoles serves as director, with Grammy-nominated artist Adam Blackstone serving as music director.