Several names were mentioned as possible performers for the halftime show. According to the entertainment publication Variety, the NFL developed a wish list for the halftime performer(s). Among those on the wish list of potential entertainers were Bruce Springsteen, Norah Jones and The Eagles. In addition, Bon Jovi expressed interest in the slot and had planned to open the U.S. leg of their Lost Highway Tour with a performance during the halftime show.

Initially, The Eagles were offered the position, but they reportedly refused. Then, on December 2, 2007, it was officially announced that Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers would be the halftime entertainment with Bridgestone as the show sponsor.

Official Announcement:
Broadcast to nearly 1 billion people in over 230 countries and territories worldwide, the Super Bowl is the marquee event of American sport and television.

Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers will rock this year's Super Bowl Halftime Show as legendary talent such as Prince, Paul McCartney, and The Rolling Stones have in recent years.

Superbowl XLII will be broadcast on FOX on February 3, 2008.