Janet Jackson’s Designer Says Super Bowl Reveal Was Planned

Lukas said the plan for Jackson’s performance with Justin Timberlake at Super Bowl XXXVIII in Houston initially involved revealing her backside. He said that idea was replaced two days before the February 1, 2004, show with a plan to expose her breast instead.

During “Rock Your Body,” Timberlake pulled away part of Jackson’s bustier, exposing her right breast on live television. Lukas said the production was supposed to switch away from the performers and turn the screen black, but that did not happen. He disputes the phrase “wardrobe malfunction,” which Timberlake used after the moment.

Jackson has maintained that the exposure was accidental and has not publicly described it as a planned stunt. Lukas’s account differs from her explanation.

Lukas said the episode hurt his career, including costing him work under contracts with morals clauses. He said he supported Jackson and stayed quiet, and does not require an apology from Timberlake, but wants him to tell the full story.

Timberlake is preparing a four-part documentary series for Apple TV+ in December. Lukas said he was not asked to participate, despite designing and changing the costume. Whether the series will address his account remains unresolved.