Some traditional football enthusiasts on social media are displaying anger following the NFL’s decision to book one of the world’s biggest music icons, who is also known for criticizing U.S. President Donald Trump, for the 2026 Super Bowl halftime show.
Bad Bunny has achieved chart-topping success with multiple songs from his recent album “DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS” and holds the title of the most streamed album in Spotify history with his 2022 release “Un Verano Sin Ti.”
Critics from the conservative side express dismay over the selection of the Puerto Rican artist, raising concerns that he may use the platform to voice anti-Trump sentiments. They also point out his gender-fluid fashion choices and predominantly Spanish-language music as reasons for their discontent.
Conservative activist Robby Starbuck remarked that the decision was made to sow division among fans rather than unite them, anticipating Bad Bunny to convey a “woke message” during his performance.
Cultural critic Stacy Lee Kong noted that Bad Bunny’s appeal extends beyond the Spanish-speaking demographic, suggesting that both his loyal fan base and detractors might tune in to either enjoy or criticize the show online.
The NFL, in collaboration with Apple Music and Jay-Z’s Roc Nation, officially announced Bad Bunny as the halftime performer for the upcoming event.
Prior to this, Bad Bunny declined a U.S. tour citing concerns over ICE raids, emphasizing the potential risks faced by Latinos amid the deportations. This decision drew criticism, with some calling him hypocritical for agreeing to the Super Bowl show despite these previous concerns.
The artist has a history of denouncing Trump, particularly in relation to Hurricane Maria and his advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights. His stance on Puerto Rico’s statehood and his vocal opposition to Trump’s actions have further fueled controversy around his Super Bowl appearance.
Although Bad Bunny’s selection might resonate with the NFL’s growing Latino fan base, it has sparked discomfort among Trump supporters who view football as their domain and perceive the artist’s presence as a political statement.
Corey Lewandowski, a senior adviser to the U.S. Homeland Security Secretary, hinted at potential ICE enforcement during the Super Bowl, emphasizing that illegal immigrants would not find refuge at the event.
Critics and supporters alike have engaged in heated debates online, with some labeling Bad Bunny as “demonic” and proposing alternative halftime performers, such as Kid Rock or Creed. The uproar surrounding Bad Bunny’s performance mirrors past controversies, such as Kendrick Lamar’s 2025 halftime show, which broke viewership records despite similar backlash.
