M.I.A. Middle Finger Gesture At Super Bowl Triggers Official Apology - Video

6 February 2012, 10:26

The British rapper sparks controversy after flipping the bird during half time show.

TV broadcaster NBC has issued an official apology after M.I.A. raised a middle finger during Madonna's Super Bowl half time performance.

The British-born rapper made the gesture during a rendition of the star's new single 'Give Me All Your Luvin'', which she features on alongside Nicki Minaj.

At the end of her final line – "I don't give a…" – M.I.A. raised her finger to the camera, which quickly cut away but not before the gesture was broadcast.

In a statement, NBC said: "The NFL hired the talent and produced the halftime show. Our system was late to obscure the inappropriate gesture and we apologise to our viewer."

The broadcaster added that M.I.A. had not done the stunt during rehearsals.

Meanwhile, the rest of Madonna's Super Bowl performance has been praised by viewers and critics.

As well as her new single, Madonna also performed 'Music', 'Vogue' and a mash-up of 'Express Yourself' and 'Like A Prayer'.

Watch Madonna's Super Bowl half time show performance below.

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