Soulful Celebration Returns for Super Bowl Week

Super Bowl week has no shortage of star power, but for nearly three decades, one event has consistently delivered something deeper than the final score. The Super Bowl Soulful Celebration is back for its 27th year, and in 2026, it’s stepping into a new era.

Premiering Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 8 p.m. ET/7 p.m. CT on BET, this year’s Soulful Celebration arrives with a reimagined, broadcast-first format designed to bring viewers closer to the heart of the experience. Hosted by NFL MVP, broadcaster, entrepreneur, and cultural tastemaker Cam Newton, the one-hour primetime special blends faith, football, music, and purpose—just in time for the biggest weekend in sports.

Anchored by the theme “Go Higher,” the Celebration invites audiences to reflect on growth, belief, and impact beyond the game. Instead of a single live event, the show was filmed in curated segments across Los Angeles and San Francisco during Super Bowl week, creating a more intimate and immersive viewing experience. The result is a cinematic approach that allows the stories—and the spirit—to fully breathe.

As the only NFL-sanctioned inspirational event of Super Bowl weekend, the Soulful Celebration continues to stand apart, honoring legacy while embracing evolution.

A Powerful Lineup of Music and Moments

This year’s broadcast features a dynamic mix of artists and voices that reflect the richness of the culture, including GRAMMY® Award-winning Pastor Mike Jr., five-time GRAMMY® winner Lalah Hathaway, Bay Area standout LaRussell, Christian hip-hop chart-topper Miles Minnick, American Idol winner Jamal Roberts, the inspiring NFL Players Choir, and the electrifying South Carolina State University Marching 101.

Founder and Executive Producer Melanie Few says the refreshed format allows for greater intention and depth.

“This year’s refreshed format allows us to slow down and be more intentional,” Few said. “By creating space for deeper storytelling, intimate performances, and meaningful moments of reflection, we’re able to honor powerful voices, impactful leaders on and off the field, and the spirit of community that has defined the Super Bowl Soulful Celebration for more than 25 years.”

GRAMMY®-winning artist Adam Blackstone, who serves as Music Director and Producer, echoed that vision, emphasizing the emotional impact of the new approach.

“The new format gives us room to be more expressive and cinematic,” Blackstone said. “It allows the music, the stories, and the emotion to breathe.”

Honoring Legacy, Faith, and Community

Beyond the performances, the program shines a spotlight on individuals whose leadership reflects the mission of the Celebration.

NFL legend Randy Moss is recognized as the Lifetime of Inspiration Honoree, celebrating his lasting influence on the game and the generations he’s inspired.

Jameis Winston of the New York Giants receives the Faith in Action Honor, recognized for his outspoken faith, leadership, and commitment to service beyond the field.

The HBCU Player Spotlight honors Javon Hargrave of the Minnesota Vikings, a proud South Carolina State University alumnus whose journey from HBCU roots to NFL excellence highlights perseverance and pride in legacy.

The Celebration also delivers a heartfelt Community Impact Spotlight, presented by Disneyland® Resort, surprising the Almond family of the Bay Area with a once-in-a-lifetime trip. NFL veteran Keenan Allen makes a special appearance, adding an emotional touch to a moment centered on family, joy, and service.

A Legacy That Continues to Evolve

Founded in 1999 during Super Bowl XXXIII, the Super Bowl Soulful Celebration has remained a cornerstone of Super Bowl week for more than 25 years. Executive Producer Valarie Benning Thompson joins Few this year, alongside Blackstone, with strategic partners including Disney and NFL Charities supporting the 2026 broadcast.

Rather than a traditional live-to-tape format, this year’s Celebration allows viewers to experience the full story—uninterrupted and complete—when it premieres on BET. An encore presentation will air Monday, February 9 at 10 p.m. ET/9 p.m. CT.

For more information, follow @SuperBowlSoulful or visit superbowlsoulful.com.