NFL fans unleashed scathing criticism toward country singer Jimmy Charles following his rendition of the national anthem before Saturday’s game between the Cleveland Browns and Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium.
The game was preceded by a moment of silence honoring the victims of the New Orleans terror attack and the late former President Jimmy Carter, whose funeral took place earlier in the day in Atlanta. Charles then took center stage to perform “The Star-Spangled Banner,” but his version was met with widespread derision on social media.
A Mixed Tribute Amid Criticism
The game’s prelude was notably poignant, as ESPN aired the moment of silence, days after drawing backlash for its decision to omit similar tributes during Sugar Bowl coverage earlier in the week.
Fans had been incensed when ESPN skipped over a planned acknowledgment of the 14 victims of the New Orleans attack during the broadcast of Notre Dame’s victory over Georgia, which had been delayed due to the tragedy. On Saturday, however, the broadcaster made no such omission.
Despite the reverence of the moment, Charles’ performance of the anthem became the focal point of fans’ ire. Social media erupted with comments mocking the Ocean City, Maryland, native’s delivery.
Social Media Backlash
“JFC Jimmy Charles, that is one of the WORST national anthem performances of all time,” one user wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
“That was by far the worst national anthem I’ve ever heard in my entire life! I literally can’t believe it,” said another.
“Browns/Ravens—I don’t care who wins. We all lost after hearing that awful, awful, AWFUL attempt at ‘The Star-Spangled Banner,’” commented a third.
The criticism continued, with one fan quipping, “Whoever @Ravens had sing the national anthem… please never let him do that again. My ears are bleeding.”
“The national anthem singer just now is definitely in the running for top 2 worst performances of ‘The Star-Spangled Banner,’ second only to Fergie,” added another, referencing the infamous rendition performed by Fergie at the 2018 NBA All-Star Game.
A Disappointing Spotlight for Charles
Jimmy Charles, a country singer with deep Maryland roots, had been handed a golden opportunity to perform in front of his hometown team and a nationwide audience. A former “American Idol” contestant from 2010, Charles has built a career in Nashville, with his music drawing on country storytelling traditions.
Ahead of the performance, Charles shared his excitement on social media, posting videos of himself receiving a personalized No. 50 Ravens jersey and watching quarterback Lamar Jackson warm up.
Unfortunately for Charles, the moment that could have further cemented his career instead turned into a social media storm of ridicule.
A Tradition of Tough Critiques
The NFL has long been a stage for national anthem performances, and with the spotlight comes scrutiny. Charles’ rendition joins the ranks of other infamous performances, such as Ingrid Andress’ widely panned version at the MLB Home Run Derby in July, which the singer later attributed to personal struggles.
For Charles, Saturday’s criticism may sting, but it also highlights the intense pressure performers face when stepping onto such a grand stage.
Moving Forward
While the Ravens extended a warm welcome to the Maryland native, the fallout from the performance serves as a reminder of the high expectations surrounding the national anthem, particularly during moments of national reflection.
Whether Charles rebounds from the criticism or uses the experience as a learning moment remains to be seen. For now, fans’ harsh words underscore the significance of the anthem as both a tribute and a performance.
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