Viewers in awe of Troy Kotsur’s sign language performance for Super Bowl LVII national anthem: ‘What a moment’
‘CODA’ actor took part in the national anthem performance ahead of Rihanna’s halftime show
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.CODA star Troy Kotsur performed the national anthem alongside Chris Stapleton ahead of Super Bowl LVII on Sunday (12 February).
Kotsur made history at the 94th Academy Awards last April by becoming the first-ever deaf male to win an acting Oscar.
The actor was back in his home state of Arizona for the sporting event to perform the “Star-Spangled Banner” in American Sign Language (ASL).
Speaking to Variety ahead of the Super Bowl, Kotsur said he was hesitant about performing until learning that the match would be hosted in Arizona.
“I was on the fence for about two weeks and then I learned that it was my hometown that was hosting the Super Bowl, so I said, ‘Hell yes, I’m in,’” he said.
Super Bowl halftime show review: Rihanna delivered a mash-up of her greatest hits – and a surprise guest
Super Bowl 2023 game LIVE: Latest updates as Patrick Mahomes finds Travis Kelce for Chiefs touchdown
Super Bowl 2023: Fans praise Chris Stapleton’s ‘breathtaking’ rendition of national anthem- Super Bowl halftime show – live: Adele among celebrity audience members for Rihanna performance
“I’m adding a little salt and pepper that will make it even more poetic, even more delicious. It’s a visual art,” Kotsur added of his performance.
Kotsur was quickly praised for his performance alongside Stapleton, with ABC journalist Jordan Bontke writing: “What a moment: Valley native and Oscar winner @TroyKotsur channels Francis Scott Key as he signs the National Anthem along side @ChrisStapleton.”
“I’m here for Troy Kotsur’s awesome signing #SuperBowl,” another fan wrote.
“The stage belonged to @TroyKotsur too. If y’alls know whats what. This is what. #ASL #SBLVII,” wrote another.
Other pre-game performances included Babyface singing “America The Beautiful” and Sheryl Lee Ralph giving her rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing”.
Follow The Independent’s live coverage of Rihanna’s Super Bowl halftime show here.
Last year, Kotsur made headlines after announcing that his Oscar trophy, which he won for CODA, had been stolen after thieves took his car.
Fortunately, the vehicle, and the priceless artefact within, were quickly retrieved.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments