Bad Bunny will headline the Super Bowl LX halftime show on Feb. 8, 2026. The NFL announced this historic decision on Sept. 28, 2025. The Puerto Rican superstar faces fierce criticism from conservative groups. Commissioner Roger Goodell refuses to reconsider the choice despite backlash.
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Super bowl halftime show 2026 sparks outrage as NFL stands firm on Bad Bunny
🔥 Quick Facts:
- Bad Bunny performs at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California
- First Super Bowl halftime performer to perform entirely in Spanish
- Roger Goodell confirmed: “No plans” to change the decision
- Donald Trump called the selection “absolutely ridiculous” on Oct. 7
- Performance airs on Apple Music and NBC nationwide
The NFL Won’t Drop Bad Bunny Despite Criticism
Commissioner Roger Goodell stood firm on Oct. 23, 2025. He addressed backlash at the annual fall owners meeting. The decision will not be reconsidered under any circumstances.
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Goodell defended the selection, saying Bad Bunny ranks among the world’s most popular entertainers. The performer brings unprecedented global reach to the halftime show stage.
“He’s one of the leading and most popular entertainers in the world. That’s what we try to achieve. It’s an important stage for us.”
Trump and Critics Challenge the Historic Choice
President Donald Trump blasted the NFL publicly. He claimed on Newsmax he’d “never heard of” Bad Bunny. Trump called the decision “absolutely ridiculous” during an interview.
Conservative groups launched counter-campaigns against the announcement. Turning Point USA unveiled an alternative “All American” halftime concept. Immigration critics cited the artist’s vocal support for immigrant rights.
Bad Bunny responded directly at Saturday Night Live on Oct. 4, 2025. The artist addressed critics head-on, expressing pride in the selection.
Breaking Records: A Spanish-Language First
This performance marks a watershed moment for the Super Bowl halftime show. Bad Bunny becomes the first primary artist to perform entirely in Spanish.
| Event Details | Information |
| Date | Feb. 8, 2026 |
| Location | Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CA |
| Broadcast | NBC and Apple Music |
| Performance Language | Primarily Spanish |
| Historic Achievement | First solo Spanish-language halftime performer |
Bad Bunny joins entertainment royalty on the halftime stage. Previous headliners include The Weeknd, Shakira, and Rihanna. The artist’s selection elevates Latino representation in American sports culture.
What Happens Next for the February Performance?
- Rehearsals intensify through January 2026 at Levi’s Stadium
- Setlist remains undisclosed; likely features biggest hits
- Expected viewership: 100+ million fans globally
- No cancellations anticipated despite ongoing criticism
- NFL doubles down on Latin music representation strategy
The controversy has only amplified interest in the performance. Streaming numbers for Bad Bunny’s catalog spiked significantly post-announcement.
Why This Moment Matters Far Beyond Football
This decision transcends sports entertainment. Bad Bunny’s selection signals major cultural shifts in America. The NFL prioritized global reach over domestic politics.
Benito Antonio Martinez Ocasio built his career on authenticity. He refused to abandon Spanish for mainstream success. His Spanish-language dominance proved a viable market strategy.
Will the NFL face sustained pressure leading to Feb. 8, 2026? Unlikely. Will viewers tune in for this historic moment? Absolutely. The halftime show becomes appointment television.
Sources
- NFL.com – Official Super Bowl LX halftime show announcement and commissioner statements
- Rolling Stone – Comprehensive coverage of the controversy and cultural significance
- NBC News – Commissioner Goodell’s defense of the selection at NFL owners meeting
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Daniel Harris is a specialist journalist focused on the crossroads of breaking news, extraordinary history, and enduring legends. With a background in historical research and storytelling, he blends timely reporting with timeless narratives, making complex events and ancient myths resonate with today’s readers. Daniel’s work often uncovers surprising links between present-day headlines and legendary tales, offering unique perspectives that captivate diverse audiences. Beyond reporting, he is passionate about preserving oral traditions and exploring how extraordinary stories continue to shape culture and identity.