Usher's highly-anticipated Super Bowl halftime show drew mixed reviews from critics, but it was a hit with audiences, attracting an impressive 30.1 million households, according to TV intelligence company Samba TV. The numbers, released on Monday morning, showcased a 5% increase from the previous year's halftime show, which featured Rihanna's memorable pregnancy reveal and received universal acclaim.

Samba TV co-founder and CEO, Ashwin Navin, praised Usher's performance, stating, "Following Apple Music's first successful halftime show last year, it found success with fans yet again with an impressive 30.1 million viewers, exceeding last year's Rihanna-led show. Overall, the halftime show drew in 5% more viewers than last year."

While it is difficult to determine the exact number of individuals represented by the 30.1 million households, it can be estimated that at least three to four people per household were watching, with the potential for even higher numbers due to the co-viewing aspect of Super Bowl parties. This suggests that upwards of 100 million people witnessed Usher and his halftime show guests.

Drawing comparisons to previous halftime shows, Usher's performance can be likened to Dr. Dre's highly popular 2022 halftime show, which featured guests such as 50 Cent, Eminem, Snoop Dogg, and Mary J. Blige, and was viewed by 29 million households.

Usher's halftime show showcased a star-studded lineup of performers, including H.E.R., who wowed the crowd with a guitar solo that brought them to their feet. Alicia Keys also made an appearance, displaying her signature piano skills and sparking online discussions about her remarkable outfit and chemistry with the singer. Lil Jon and Ludacris, who collaborated with Usher on the hit single "Yeah" in 2004, also joined the Las Vegas show.

During the halftime show, rumors spread online and across social media that controversial rapper Kanye West, who had recently released a new album, made a surprise appearance. However, it was later clarified that fans had mistaken will.i.am, who joined Usher for the performance of "OMG," for West.

Usher's Super Bowl halftime show left a lasting impression on millions of viewers, attracting a significant audience and delivering a star-studded performance that will be remembered for years to come.