Cardi B Joins Global Citizen Festival, the Weeknd Bows Out

Cardi B has joined the lineup for Global Citizen Festival, which takes place on Sept. 27. The news comes as the Weeknd bows out. “Due to personal reasons, The Weeknd will no longer be able to perform at the Festival,” organizers said in a press release on Monday.

“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 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!!!” 

The announcement comes as the rapper is fresh off the release of Am I the Drama?, her sophomore album that arrived last Friday. She launches her first headlining arena tour next year. Dubbed the Little Miss Drama Tour, it kicks off on Feb. 11 in Palm Desert, California at Acrisure Arena.

“We are incredibly grateful to Cardi B, who has joined the Global Citizen Festival line-up. She’s an outstanding performer, who will light up Central Park in spectacular fashion,” Global Citizen’s co-founder & CEO Hugh Evans said in a statement. “We wish The Weeknd support and want to thank him and his fans for all taking action with us to help end extreme poverty.”

A rep for the Weeknd did not immediately respond to Rolling Stone’s request for comment. The artist had previously headlined the event alongside Janet Jackson and Cardi B in 2018.

Shakira, Tyla, Mariah the Scientist, and Ayra Starr are also scheduled to perform at this year’s edition. Hugh Jackman, Global Citizen Ambassador, will return as the host.

The 2025 festival will focus on increasing access to energy for 1 million people in Africa and — by working with FIFA — ensuring that 30,000 children access quality education and football. The two organizations will mobilize $200 million to protect 30 million hectares of Amazon rainforest. The event will also help register 40,000 New Yorkers to volunteer.

Global Citizen Fest tickets can be earned for free by fans who take action to help end poverty by volunteering via the charity’s app. Tickets may also be purchased. Ticket holders who wish to seek refunds following the lineup change will receive instructions via email from Ticketmaster, per organizers.