Cardi B to Headline Global Citizen Festival 2025 as The Weeknd Steps Down
New York City — September 23, 2025 — The Global Citizen Festival lineup just got a major shake-up. Rap superstar Cardi B has been announced as a last-minute addition to the Global Citizen Festival 2025 in New York’s Central Park, stepping in after The Weeknd withdrew from the show due to “personal reasons.”
Image credit : Insta
The annual festival — taking place on Saturday, September 27 — brings together music’s biggest names and tens of thousands of fans to raise awareness and inspire action against extreme poverty, hunger, and inequality worldwide.
Cardi B Brings the “Drama” to Central Park
Fresh off the release of her sophomore album Am I the Drama?, which dropped just last week, Cardi B is ready to take over the stage.
“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 said in a statement. “This festival isn’t just about music — it’s about uniting to make real change for children and communities across the world. New York, let’s get it!”
The Bronx-born artist is also gearing up for her first headlining arena tour, the Little Miss Drama Tour, which kicks off on February 11, 2026, in Palm Desert, California.
The Weeknd Steps Away, Organizers Respond
Organizers confirmed The Weeknd’s exit in a press release:
“Due to personal reasons, The Weeknd will no longer be able to perform at the Festival.”
Global Citizen’s co-founder and CEO Hugh Evans praised Cardi B for stepping in:
“We are incredibly grateful to Cardi B. She’s an electrifying performer who will light up Central Park. While we support The Weeknd during this time, we’re excited for fans to experience Cardi’s powerful set in support of ending extreme poverty.”
The Weeknd has a long history with the cause, having previously shared the Global Citizen Festival stage in 2018 alongside Cardi B and Janet Jackson.
A Star-Studded Global Citizen Festival 2025 Lineup
Along with Cardi B, the 2025 Global Citizen Festival lineup features a powerhouse roster:
- Shakira
- Tyla
- Mariah the Scientist
- Ayra Starr
Returning as host is Hugh Jackman, a Global Citizen Ambassador.
How to Get Global Citizen Festival Tickets
As always, tickets to the Global Citizen Festival 2025 can be earned for free by fans who take action through the Global Citizen app — from signing petitions to volunteering in their communities. Limited tickets are also available for purchase.
For fans who had tickets and now wish to request a refund following the lineup change, Ticketmaster will contact buyers directly with instructions, organizers confirmed.
Why the Global Citizen Festival Matters
More than just a concert, the Global Citizen Festival has become a cultural movement — mobilizing millions around the world to take action on issues like climate change, global health, education, and poverty alleviation. Each year, the event merges entertainment with activism, proving that music can be a force for change.