Bad Bunny Headlines 2026 Super Bowl Halftime Show, Igniting Political Firestorm

The Super Bowl LX Halftime Show Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California will feature Bad Bunny — the Puerto Rican global superstar born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio — on February 8, 2026, despite a furious backlash from conservative voices who call the selection a political affront. The NFL confirmed the decision on November 3, 2025, with Commissioner Roger Goodell standing firm: "He's one of the leading and most popular entertainers in the world. That's what we try to achieve." But for many on the right, this isn't about music. It's about identity, power, and who gets to represent America on its biggest stage.

Why This Decision Sparks Outrage

The criticism didn’t take long to surface. Within hours of the September 28, 2025 announcement, conservative commentators began flooding social media with accusations. Filmmaker Robby Starbuck asked his followers: "Does this guy embody American football for anyone? Be honest with me. No one believes he does. This isn't about music; it's about featuring someone on stage who despises Trump and MAGA." On X, conservative pundit Greg Price claimed Bad Bunny had vowed never to perform again in the continental U.S. due to ICE policies — a reference to the artist’s 2024 decision to skip mainland U.S. dates during his "Debís Tirar Más Foto World Tour" after reporting fears that immigration agents might target his fans.

Then came the most powerful voice of all. Donald Trump, in a November 3, 2025 interview on Newsmax, dismissed the choice outright: "I've never heard of him. I don't know why they're doing it. It's, like, crazy." His comments echoed a broader sentiment among his base: that the NFL, long seen as a symbol of American tradition, was being hijacked by progressive cultural elites.

The Counter-Movement: Turning Point USA’s 'All American Halftime Show'

In response, Turning Point USA — the conservative youth organization founded by Charlie Kirk — announced an alternative event: the "All American Halftime Show." Scheduled for the same night, it’s meant to be a direct rebuttal. "We’re not trying to cancel anyone," said TPUSA supporter Feldman. "We’re offering a choice. Someone like Jelly Roll — a man who turned his life around through faith — represents what real American resilience looks like."

Jelly Roll, the rapper-turned-country singer whose music often explores redemption and faith, was floated as the likely performer. But here’s the twist: TPUSA hasn’t officially confirmed anyone. And that uncertainty has fueled skepticism. "I don’t understand why they’re putting on their own halftime performance," said viewer Yatko. "If you’re that upset about it, just turn off the channel. It’s not like everyone likes the halftime performer all the time."

A Legacy of Politicized Halftime Shows

This isn’t the first time the Super Bowl halftime has become a political lightning rod. In 2020, Shakira and Jennifer Lopez’s performance — which featured Bad Bunny alongside J Balvin — included imagery of children behind fences, interpreted by critics as a protest against U.S. immigration detention policies. That show drew over 200 complaints to the FCC. In 2025, Kendrick Lamar’s performance, praised by many for its Black cultural symbolism, triggered more than 100 FCC complaints citing "a lack of white representation." And in 2016, Beyoncé’s "Formation" performance was condemned by some as "anti-police."

Each time, the NFL has defended its choices as reflections of cultural relevance, not political statements. And yet, every decision becomes a referendum on who belongs in the American mainstream.

Bad Bunny’s Unlikely Path to the Big Stage

The irony isn’t lost on fans. Bad Bunny, who completed a 31-day residency in San Juan as a protest against U.S. immigration enforcement, now stands on the very stage he once refused to step on. He’s since clarified that his decision to perform at Super Bowl LX was not a reversal of his values — but a recognition of the platform’s power. "I’m not here to make anyone comfortable," he told Rolling Stone in October. "I’m here because millions of people, including those who don’t speak Spanish, will hear what I have to say."

His 2025 global tour generated $230 million in ticket sales — second only to Taylor Swift among all musicians worldwide. His fanbase spans generations and borders. In California, University of California student Bonila put it simply: "I’m waiting for the statement and the message Benito has for the world. But I’m more excited to see how America will react. Will they understand? Will they listen? And will this spark change?"

What’s Next?

The NFL has declined to issue a statement beyond Goodell’s initial remarks. But behind the scenes, internal polling suggests the decision may have boosted viewership projections by 12%, especially among younger and Latino demographics. Meanwhile, advertisers are already negotiating premium slots during the show — a sign that commercial interests may ultimately outweigh political noise.

On game day, millions will tune in not just for the football, but for the spectacle. And whether you love him or loathe him, Bad Bunny has already won: he’s made the Super Bowl halftime show matter again.