Metallica’s Lars Ulrich dropped a bombshell on SiriusXM’s Howard Stern Show, hinting at the band’s interest in headlining the 2026 Super Bowl Halftime Show and staging a residency at the cutting-edge Las Vegas Sphere. The revelations came as the band gears up to launch their new Maximum Metallica SiriusXM channel with an intimate live show at Stephen Talkhouse on August 28, 2025, fueling excitement among fans worldwide.
Aiming for the Big Stage
The 2026 Super Bowl, set for February 8 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California—Metallica’s hometown—has caught the band’s eye. Ulrich enthusiastically told Stern, “Fuck yeah, of course we would,” adding that performing in San Francisco would be a “dream come true” and a perfect fit for their Bay Area roots. While no official offer has been made, the idea of a heavy metal halftime show, absent since The Who in 2010, has fans buzzing. Ulrich’s comments suggest the band is actively considering this high-profile slot.
Sphere Residency on the Horizon
Ulrich also addressed rumors of a Las Vegas Sphere residency, a venue that has wowed with performances by U2 and Dead & Company. “I’m not going to confirm anything, because there’s nothing to confirm,” he said, “but I’m not going to deny it, because we’re all such fans of this venue.” He noted that the band’s team has explored the Sphere, with plans potentially taking shape post their 2026 European tour. The drummer’s excitement—“I would fucking love to do it”—signals a serious interest in leveraging the Sphere’s immersive technology for a Metallica spectacle.
Maximum Metallica Launch
To celebrate the launch of Maximum Metallica on SiriusXM Channel 42, starting August 29, the band is hosting an exclusive gig at the 250-capacity Stephen Talkhouse in Amagansett, New York, on August 28. Tickets are available through a lottery system via SiriusXM and Metallica’s website, with the show streaming on September 1. This intimate event underscores the band’s connection with fans as they expand their media presence.
With Metallica’s legacy spanning over four decades and their recent tribute to Ozzy Osbourne following his passing, these potential gigs highlight their enduring relevance. Whether it’s the Super Bowl or the Sphere, 2026 promises to be a landmark year for the thrash metal icons.
Stay tuned for updates and enter the ticket lottery to catch this rare live performance.
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Metallica’s Dream Gig? Lars Ulrich Teases Super Bowl 2026 and Las Vegas Sphere Residency @RockNews
