Bad Bunny will headline Super Bowl LX on Feb. 8, 2026, and the NFL refuses to budge. Commissioner Roger Goodell stood firm this week. He rejected calls to replace the three-time Grammy Award winner. The Puerto Rican superstar will perform primarily in Spanish at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara.
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Super bowl halftime show 2026 sparks outrage as NFL stands firm on Bad Bunny
🔥 Quick Facts:
- Bad Bunny confirmed as 2026 Super Bowl LX halftime headliner on Sept. 28
- Show takes place Feb. 8, 2026 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California
- NFL won’t reconsider decision despite conservative backlash since announcement
- First male Latin American artist to headline the Super Bowl halftime show
- Apple Music and Roc Nation producing the performance
How the NFL Made Its Decision
Apple Music, the NFL, and Roc Nation jointly announced Bad Bunny on Sept. 28, 2025. This marks a historic moment for the league. The artist will become the first male Latin American performer to headline. His selection ended months of speculation about the choice.
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Goodell explained the reasoning directly. “He’s one of the leading and most popular entertainers in the world,” he said this week. “That’s what we try to achieve.” The commissioner emphasized that the selection was “carefully thought through.” It wasn’t made hastily or without strategic planning. Jay-Z’s Roc Nation has curated the halftime show since 2023.
“It’s an important stage for us. We try to have big moments.”
Why Conservative Groups Are Upset
The announcement sparked immediate backlash from conservative voices and supporters of President Trump. Critics opposed the artist’s political activism and his decision to sing primarily in Spanish. Some called it divisive. Turning Point USA even announced an alternative “All American” halftime event in response.
Much criticism centers on language and cultural identity. Bad Bunny has been open about supporting Puerto Rico and progressive causes. He previously criticized the Trump administration. His Spanish-language performance at sport’s biggest stage struck traditionally-minded viewers as controversial.
Yet Goodell’s comments this week made clear: the NFL isn’t reconsidering. The league stands fully behind the decision. No replacement is being evaluated. The commissioner’s statement felt like a decisive full stop.
What Celebrities Are Saying
Support for Bad Bunny’s performance has come swiftly from major celebrities. Jennifer Lopez, LeBron James, and other major stars voiced enthusiastic endorsements. The Dropkick Murphys singer defended the choice publicly. These voices helped counter the conservative narrative.
| Reaction Type | Source | Stance |
| Celebrity Support | J. Lopez, L. James, Others | Enthusiastic Backing |
| Conservative Reaction | Media Personalities, Trump Supporters | Strong Opposition |
| Alternative Event | Turning Point USA | Competing Show |
| NFL Position | Commissioner Goodell | Unwavering Commitment |
On SNL this month, Bad Bunny himself addressed the criticism directly. He clapped back at detractors during his hosting appearance. His response was lighthearted yet pointed. He didn’t apologize for being Latinx or for singing in Spanish.
What Happens Between Now and February
Rehearsals and planning will intensify over the coming months. Bad Bunny is already a three-time Grammy Award winner. His track record suggests a polished, high-energy show. Levi’s Stadium will be fully prepared for the performance.
- Production teams begin detailed rehearsals over next 4 months
- Set design and choreography finalized by December 2025
- NFL continues defending decision against ongoing criticism
- Broadcast networks prepare promotional campaign in January 2026
- Security and logistics planning accelerates as date approaches
Will the NFL Ever Back Down?
Goodell’s statement this week answered that: no. The commissioner made his position crystal clear. The decision is final. Bad Bunny is performing, and that’s the end of the discussion. This resolute stance matters because it signals the NFL won’t buckle to political pressure. It shows confidence in the choice. It suggests the league values diversity and cultural representation.
The path forward is set. Bad Bunny will take the stage on Feb. 8, 2026. He’ll perform in Spanish. Millions of viewers will tune in. The performance will either vindicate the NFL’s bet or become a lightning rod for culture war debates. Only time will tell. Until then, both sides are dug in.
Watch the official Bad Bunny Super Bowl announcement here:
Sources
- NFL.com – Official announcement and commissioner statements on Bad Bunny selection
- Newsweek – Roger Goodell update and NFL defense of the decision
- Rolling Stone – Analysis of conservative reactions and cultural significance
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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.
Anyone else notice the irony in the NFLs decision? Standing firm on Bad Bunny, sparking outrage while claiming inclusivity. Will this backfire or boost Super Bowl ratings? Share your bets!
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