NFL to Would-Be Halftime Acts: Pay Up

Coldplay, Katy Perry, and Rihanna: One of them will headline next year's Super Bowl halftime show, and it might just come down to whoever is willing to shell out for the privilege. Citing "people familiar with the matter," the Wall Street Journal reports that the NFL, in notifying each act that they're the finalists under consideration, is also asking if, ahem, they might be willing to toss some post-halftime show income or "some other type of financial contribution" the league's way. The NFL isn't commenting on particulars, and a rep would say only that its commitment is only "to put on the best possible show."

Though the Journal notes that the idea met a "chilly reception," it's an interesting gambit: Last year's show hauled in 115.3 million viewers, and artists such as Bruno Mars and Beyonce have successfully used their performances as a springboard for concert tours—often putting tickets on sale virtually as the curtain goes down. CD and MP3 sales often see a boost, as well, though it's tough to gauge exactly what that windfall might be. As for who might be inclined to cough up, the Verge notes that all three acts are well-established cash cows and don't need the exposure the way an up-and-comer might. That said, Rihanna is currently recording her first album since 2012, and, well, if she happened to time its release fortuitously, might have the most to gain. (More NFL stories.)