Inaugural Poet Amanda Gorman Is Headed For The Super Bowl

Amanda Gorman, a youth poet laureate and the youngest inaugural poet in U.S. history, has been recruited to recite an original piece that honors the heroes of the COVID-19 pandemic at next week's Super Bowl LV. Her performance, which was announced via Good Morning America early on Wednesday, will preface kickoff on February 7.

The 22-year-old poet earned national acclaim when she recited her poem, "The Hill We Climb," at the inauguration of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, winning the attention of notables like former president Barack Obama and Oprah Winfrey.

Related article: Amanda Gorman Is The Youngest Inaugural Poet In U.S. History

"I am the descendant of a slave, also named Amanda, who would’ve been severely punished for reading and writing," Gorman told BAZAAR for our 2020 October issue. "The fact that I can write and create with joy and audacity is a gift that I try to pay forward."

Gorman also caught the attention of the fashion and beauty industries with her bold yellow-and-red inauguration look. Yesterday, modeling agency IMG announced that it is now representing the poet for fashion and beauty endorsements, per The New York Times.

Related article: Why Everyone At The Inauguration Dressed In Monochrome Colours

"I'm a Black woman with a powerful pen and a big heart, and I like my look to reflect that pride," Gorman told us of her style influences. "I love loud, regal-looking dresses embroidered with flowers—a nod, I think, to my Afro–flower-child upbringing in Los Angeles. I’m also a fan of Victor Glemaud’s super-stylish and comfy knitwear."

While Gorman is set to headline the pregame festivities, The Weeknd has been announced as the Super Bowl LV halftime performer.

This article originally appeared on Harper's BAZAAR US.

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