Bad Bunny headlines the Super Bowl LX halftime show on Feb. 8, 2026. The Puerto Rican superstar performs primarily in Spanish language music. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell says the league stands firm on this choice. He praised the artist’s global stardom and popularity.
🔥 Quick Facts:
- Bad Bunny announced as Super Bowl LX halftime headliner on Sept. 28, 2025
- Performance takes place at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California on Feb. 8, 2026
- Change.org petition launched calling for replacement with George Strait
- Conservative groups launched social media campaigns opposing the selection
- Goodell confirmed the NFL won’t reconsider the decision on Oct. 22, 2025
NFL Doubles Down on Bad Bunny Choice
Roger Goodell defended the Bad Bunny announcement during an interview last week. The NFL Commissioner emphasized the artist’s immense popularity worldwide. Goodell stated, “He’s one of the leading entertainers in the world.” The league selected him to appeal to a broader, younger demographic.
The announcement triggered immediate backlash from conservative groups and social media. Turning Point USA and other organizations launched campaigns opposing the choice. A Change.org petition to replace Bad Bunny with George Strait gained significant traction. Conservative commentators on Fox News criticized the selection.
“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.”
Why This Controversy Erupted
Critics raised multiple concerns about Bad Bunny’s selection. The first issue centers on language. Bad Bunny performs primarily in Spanish, making this the first Super Bowl halftime show performed entirely in a non-English language. Supporters argue this reflects America’s diverse population and global music landscape.
Additional criticism focused on the artist’s political stances. Bad Bunny has spoken out against Trump administration immigration policies and publicly supported LGBTQ+ rights. Conservative groups cited these statements as reasons to oppose his performance. Bad Bunny supporters counter that his global reach and cultural significance make him ideal for the platform.
Some fans expressed disappointment about missing opportunities for other performers. Many social media users speculated about Taylor Swift, Miley Cyrus, and Adele potentially headlining instead. However, the NFL made its selection based on current relevance and international appeal.
Key Details About the Performance
Bad Bunny will perform at Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium in the San Francisco Bay Area. The performance follows his massive Debí Tirar Más Fotos World Tour and continued dominance in global streaming. With 51+ million YouTube subscribers, he ranks among the world’s largest music artists.
| Performance Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Artist | Bad Bunny (Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio) |
| Event | Super Bowl LX Halftime Show |
| Date | February 8, 2026 |
| Location | Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, California |
| YouTube Subscribers | 51.1 Million |
| Primary Language | Spanish |
What’s Next for This Decision?
The NFL confirmed on Oct. 22, 2025 that Bad Bunny will perform no matter what.
- Goodell made a public statement defending the choice
- The league won’t reconsider despite petition efforts
- Change.org petition continues gaining signatures online
- Cultural organizations praise the selection for its diversity
- Bad Bunny is expected to headline a major production
Media analysts predict this will be one of the most talked-about halftime shows in history. The controversy ensures significant viewership and social media engagement. Whether supporters or critics tune in, Bad Bunny appears to have generated unprecedented pre-show buzz.
Will Bad Bunny’s Performance Divide Fans or Unite Them?
The Super Bowl halftime show has historically brought Americans together through music. Past performances pushed cultural boundaries in positive ways. Bad Bunny’s selection reflects America’s evolving demographics and streaming habits. Billboard data shows Spanish-language music dominates streaming platforms.
Critics worry about excluding English-only speakers during the halftime break. Supporters argue that diversity strengthens the broadcast’s appeal. Music experts note that Bad Bunny transcends language barriers through rhythm and dance. His music videos regularly exceed 100 million views across platforms. The Feb. 8, 2026 performance will likely draw record-breaking viewership numbers.
The real question isn’t whether Bad Bunny can deliver. It’s whether this moment represents American culture moving forward toward inclusion or backward toward nostalgia. Either way, millions will tune in to find out.
Sources
- Rolling Stone – Coverage of MAGA reaction and cultural debate
- NFL Official – Statement from Commissioner Roger Goodell
- New York Magazine – Detailed explanation of the controversy
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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.