Amanda Gorman praised for ‘uplifting’ Super Bowl performance

Gorman performed virtually in a pale blue rhinestone and pearl-embellished coat

Inaugural poet Amanda Gorman has made an appearance at Super Bowl LV, where she performed a poem for the night’s honourary “captains” and all healthcare workers.

Ahead of kick-off, the 22-year-old, who became the first poet to perform for the Super Bowl, appeared virtually in a long pale blue suit jacket, during which she honoured the frontline workers who have worked tirelessly amid the pandemic.

"Today we honour our three captains for their actions and impact in a time of uncertainty and need," the poet said. "They've taken the lead, exceeding all expectations and limitations, uplifting their communities and neighbours as leaders, healers and educators."

The poem celebrated the three captains chosen to take part in the coin toss, Los Angeles teacher Trimaine Davis, nurse  Suzie Dorner and US Marine Corps veteran James Martin.

The uplifting performance, which came after musical performances by Jazmine Sullivan, Eric Church and HER, was met with praise on social media, where viewers applauded the poet. 

“OK how is it possible that @TheAmandaGorman gives me chills every. single. time she speaks,” one person tweeted.

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Another said: “Good lord, Amanda Gorman poetry at this #SuperBowl, regardless of who wins this game, WE WON.”

“Amanda Gorman is RIVETING! She is powerful. She is inspirational. She is uplifting.  I. AM. IN. AWE,” someone else wrote.

Others focused on Gorman’s outfit, with many praising the Harvard graduate’s pearl-embellished coat, which she paired with a pearl crown headband.

“Between the Biden inauguration and the Super Bowl, there is now sufficient evidence that I need to go coat shopping with Amanda Gorman,” one person tweeted, while someone else said: “@TheAmandaGorman was stellar. And girl. OMG where did you get that coat?! Holy cow that was beautiful!”

Gorman's performance came after she experienced nationwide recognition following her poem recitiation at President Joe Biden's inauguration last month.