Adam Levine's shirtless Super Bowl performance prompts FCC complaints

Adam Levine's shirt removal during the Super Bowl LIII halftime show has sparked comparisons to the infamous Janet Jackson wardrobe malfunction that occurred in 2004.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) received over 50 complaints from viewers regarding the Maroon 5 frontman's nipples, with many pointing out a double standard, according to Ashley Cullins of the Hollywood Reporter.

"In 2004, CBS was fined $550,000 for airing what has become known as the 'Nipple Slip.' In 2019, CBS aired Adam Levine removing his shirt exposing both nipples. This must be dealt with in a similar manner, or the double standard must be made public," one viewer wrote.

"Seeing Adam Levine's nipples was repulsive. Also the fact that there hasn't been an immediate backlash like the Janet Jackson incident is disturbing and sexist," said another.

More than half a million people reportedly filed complaints with the FCC after Justin Timberlake removed part of Jackson's outfit during the Super Bowl XXXVIII halftime show, exposing her right breast. The FCC issued a $550,000 indecency fine against CBS, but it was later thrown out by a federal appeals court.

There was speculation last year that Jackson had been banned by the NFL after it was announced Timberlake would perform at Super Bowl LII, however, the league released a statement denying that was the case.