The NFL’s decision to feature Bad Bunny as the headliner for the Super Bowl LX halftime show has ignited intense national debate, with fans and critics clashing online. The Latin superstar’s “Spanish-only” performance has divided opinion, with some arguing that it excludes millions of viewers, while others praise it as a historic celebration of Latino culture and global influence. As hashtags trend and opinions flood social media, the NFL remains firm, defending the move as a reflection of America’s modern, multicultural landscape.
Roger Goodell, NFL Commissioner, stood by the choice of Bad Bunny, emphasizing its importance as a unifying moment for fans from all walks of life. Critics, particularly from conservative circles, have questioned whether a Latin trap artist could resonate with the traditional Super Bowl audience. Former President Donald Trump, among others, described the selection as “ridiculous” and raised doubts about Bad Bunny’s mainstream appeal.
Despite the criticism, Goodell made it clear that the decision was made after careful thought and aimed at creating excitement and unity. “This is a chance to celebrate diversity and bring fans from different backgrounds together,” Goodell said. “Bad Bunny embodies this vision, and we believe this is a step forward in reflecting the diverse world we live in.”
Bad Bunny, born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, is a three-time Grammy-winning artist renowned for his trailblazing contributions to reggaeton and Latin trap. In recent years, he’s become an international sensation not just for his music but for his activism in support of causes like LGBTQ+ rights and Puerto Rican disaster relief efforts.
Bad Bunny’s performance will mark a milestone as the first solo Spanish-language artist to headline the Super Bowl halftime show. The artist previously joined Shakira and Jennifer Lopez during the Super Bowl LIV halftime show, with many fans seeing it as a preview of his potential to command a global stage.
The choice has sparked criticism, largely due to Bad Bunny’s outspoken political views, including his past statements on U.S. immigration policies. Some question whether his genre and language would connect with a typical Super Bowl audience, traditionally dominated by English-language acts.
During his October 2025 appearance on Saturday Night Live, Bad Bunny addressed the controversy with humor, saying viewers had “four months to learn Spanish” before the show. He stressed that his performance is a historic moment for Latino representation, underscoring the significance of honoring Latinx contributions to mainstream culture.
The decision has garnered strong support from local and state officials. California Governor Gavin Newsom hailed Bad Bunny’s selection as a reflection of the state’s cultural diversity, while Santa Clara Mayor Lisa Gillmor assured the public that the NFL and local authorities were working together to ensure the event runs smoothly and without political disruptions.
Celebrities from all over the entertainment industry have also voiced their support for Bad Bunny. Shakira, Jennifer Lopez, Bruno Mars, and Jelly Roll are among those who have praised his dynamic presence and artistry. Jay-Z, founder of Roc Nation, emphasized the importance of Bad Bunny’s success, noting that he has brought global attention to Puerto Rico while maintaining cultural authenticity in his performances.
The production of the halftime show is set to be just as ambitious as the artist himself, with collaboration between DPS, Roc Nation, and veteran producer Jesse Collins to ensure a spectacular live event that meets the Super Bowl’s legendary standards. Fans will be able to watch the performance on various platforms, including NBC, Peacock, Telemundo, and NFL+, with millions tuning in from around the world.
Experts predict that Bad Bunny’s performance could reshape the expectations for future Super Bowl halftime shows. The NFL has increasingly embraced diversity and international appeal, moving away from traditional pop and rock stars to spotlight performers who represent a broader range of cultures. Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl debut could set a precedent for other non-English language artists to follow.
As the Super Bowl on February 8, 2026, approaches, all eyes will be on Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara. Regardless of the controversy surrounding his selection, Bad Bunny’s performance is bound to be a historic event, sparking global conversations about music, representation, and cultural evolution on one of the world’s biggest stages. Whether embraced or criticized, his halftime show promises to be an unforgettable moment in Super Bowl history.
