From late night bowling to signed pizza boxes

Every year, more than a hundred million people tune in to watch the Super Bowl half-time show 

And event that is one of the biggest in the US musical calendar, despite taking place on the field.

This weekend, Rihanna is set to make her hugely-anticipated return to stage – much to the excitement of her loyal fans as the headliner for the halftime show at the Super Bowl 2023. 

The multi award-winning Barbadian confirmed the performance by sharing a photo of her hand holding an American football on Instagram and Twitter on September 25, 2022.

In a statement, the NFL confirmed the popstar and businesswoman will perform at the State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, in February, the Manchester Evening News previously reported.

Weeks later, Rihanna returned to the charts with a single for Marvel film Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. Lift Me Up is Rihanna’s first new song in six years.

Throughout her successful career, Rihanna has travelled the world performing her Grammy award-winning hits and came to Manchester numerous times. Many will remember seeing Rihanna in concert, whereas others will have spotted the star out and about in the city.

As Rihanna is set to return to the stage for the Super Bowl Half-time show, we take a look back at a number of times she has visited the city. This isn’t intended to be comprehensive, but if you have more memories of Rihanna in Manchester, let us know in the comments section.

Of her many performances in Manchester, RiRi fans will remember the star performed at the MEN Arena for four nights as part of her Loud tour of the UK in 2011. Fans including Wayne Rooney and his wife Coleen came in out of the rain to enjoy a set packed with her biggest hits – and brightest costumes.

On October 10, the MEN reported: “”The 23-year-old Barbadian bombshell opened the show with chart-topping single Only Girl (In the World). Rihanna, known for her risque song lyrics and stage outfits, entered the arena stage in a circular metal cage.