Bad Bunny’s upcoming Super Bowl LX Halftime Show has ignited political backlash, with critics demanding the NFL replace the Puerto Rican rapper.
The controversy centers on the artist’s past political statements and career decisions that some say make him a divisive choice. He previously criticized President Donald Trump and chose to skip U.S. tour stops over concerns about immigration enforcement and ICE raids. Others have questioned whether his global appeal fits the NFL’s traditional audience. The backlash prompted him to address critics publicly.
Bad Bunny Responds
Bad Bunny addressed the criticism while hosting “Saturday Night Live” on Oct. 4. “I’m very happy, and I think everyone is happy about it — even Fox News,” he joked, before switching to Spanish to thank Latinos and Latinas in the United States. “An achievement of mine is an achievement of all. Our mark and our contribution in this country can never be taken away or erased.”
Commissioner Defends Choice
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell pushed back during the league’s fall meeting on Wednesday. “He’s one of the leading and most popular entertainers in the world,” Goodell said. “That’s what we try to achieve. It’s an important stage for us. It’s carefully thought through.”
Goodell said backlash is common with halftime show selections. “I’m not sure we’ve ever selected an artist where we didn’t have some blowback,” he said. “We’re confident it’s going to be a great show. He understands the platform that he’s on, and I think it’s going to be exciting and a united moment.”
Rival Halftime Show Planned
In response to the controversy, conservative organization Turning Point USA announced plans for an “All-American Halftime Show” on Feb. 8, 2026 — the same day as the Super Bowl. The event, which began as an online joke before gaining viral support, is being promoted as a celebration of “faith, family and freedom.”
The group has not released performer details but shared a poll asking followers what music genres they want featured, including country, classic rock, pop, hip-hop, or “anything in English.”
NFL Stands Firm on Decision
Despite the criticism, the NFL has made clear it won’t change course. The league expects Bad Bunny’s performance to be a unifying moment on one of television’s biggest stages.
Alondra Cabrera is the Editorial Assistant at New Jersey Digest. She recently graduated from Montclair State University with a degree in Communication and Media Studies. During her time at school, she discovered her passion for journalism and content creation. In her free time, she loves to create and edit videos for her corgis, Rafi and Toffe, and indulge in culinary adventures with her friends. Alondra also enjoys traveling, cooking, and working out. She is excited to embark on her professional journey in media and looks forward to contributing her skill and creativity to her role here at New Jersey Digest.
