Performing for the Queen of England is an unparalleled honor, and Janet Jackson had the rare chance to do just that for the late Queen Elizabeth II. This memorable event was not only important because of the royal audience but also due to an unforgettable wardrobe malfunction.
In a “Life in Looks” video released by British Vogue on YouTube on September 12, Janet Jackson revisited 17 of her iconic outfits from 1970 to the present. Among these was the ensemble she wore in 1990 during her Hollywood Walk of Fame star ceremony, which held a particularly amusing story.
Janet Jackson recounts how her pants split during a performance for Queen Elizabeth II, but she ensured the show went on flawlessly
Reflecting on that performance, Janet shared, “A funny thing happened with this outfit. I was performing ‘Rhythm Nation’ for the Queen of England, and when I squatted, my pants split right in my ‘booty crack.’”
The 58-year-old artist recounted her shock upon realizing what had happened and how she felt a draft, confirming the incident. “I couldn’t believe it. I thought, ‘Oh my God,’” Janet continued, noting the mishap seemed to occur just as the importance of performing for the Queen set in.
Displaying her professionalism, Janet quickly adapted her performance, ensuring she never turned her back to the audience. She humorously mused, “Imagine if I had turned around and flashed her, even just for a second!”
Janet’s stage wardrobe malfunctions did not end there. A notorious incident occurred during the 2004 Super Bowl when Justin Timberlake, a surprise guest, accidentally revealed part of her right breast while performing.
Timberlake, who was later arrested for a DUI, described the incident as a “wardrobe malfunction,” although there was much debate about whether it was intentional.
In her 2022 Lifetime documentary, Janet Jackson, she addressed the Super Bowl incident, dismissing it as an “accident” that was blown out of proportion. “It was indeed an accident that shouldn’t have happened,” she explained. “People are always looking for someone to blame, but that needs to stop. Justin and I are very good friends and will always be.”
