The 2025 Global Citizen Festival is set for this Saturday, September 27, in New York’s Central Park, and the lineup has seen a last-minute change. Originally scheduled headliner The Weeknd has withdrawn for personal reasons, with Cardi B stepping in to lead the event.

In a message posted to social media, The Weeknd expressed his regret, writing that he was unable to perform but continued to support Global Citizen’s mission. “Thank you to my fans for taking action with them, as I believe in their mission deeply,” he noted, adding gratitude for the understanding of his supporters.

Global Citizen co-founder and CEO Hugh Evans welcomed Cardi B’s addition to the bill, praising her as a dynamic artist sure to energize Central Park. “We wish the Weeknd support and want to thank him and his fans for taking action with us to help end extreme poverty,” Evans said in a press release. Cardi B herself shared her excitement: “Central Park, I’m coming for you! … This one’s not like other music festivals—this one is about coming together to help children around the world, and I’m so proud to support such an important cause.”

The festival will be hosted by Hugh Jackman and will also feature performances from Shakira, Tyla, Ayra Starr, Mariah the Scientist, Camilo, and Elyanna. Fans around the world can tune in via YouTube and other platforms. For Cardi B, the appearance comes on the heels of her new album Am I the Drama?, highlighted by the Kehlani-assisted single “Safe.”