NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell is firmly backing Bad Bunny as the headline performer for the upcoming 2026 Super Bowl Halftime Show, despite facing significant backlash from conservative figures. The announcement, made on September 28 by Apple Music and the NFL, has sparked outrage among some who question the choice of the globally recognized artist who primarily performs in Spanish.
In response to the criticism, Goodell stated, “It’s carefully thought through. I’m not sure we’ve ever selected an artist where we didn’t have some blowback or criticism.” He emphasized the challenge of satisfying a diverse audience, saying, “It’s pretty hard to do when you have literally hundreds of millions of people that are watching.” Goodell expressed confidence in Bad Bunny’s ability to deliver an exceptional performance, noting, “He understands the platform that he’s on, and I think it’s going to be exciting and a united moment.”
The decision to feature Bad Bunny has drawn pointed criticism from high-profile conservative figures, including former President Donald Trump. During a recent interview on NewsMax, Trump called it “absolutely ridiculous” for Bad Bunny to perform, despite admitting he was unfamiliar with the artist. Trump stated, “I don’t know who he is… I don’t know why they’re doing it. It’s crazy.”
Corey Lewandowski, Trump’s former campaign manager, also condemned the choice, threatening that ICE agents would be present at the Super Bowl. Lewandowski warned, “There is nowhere you can provide safe haven to people who are in this country illegally. Not the Super Bowl and nowhere else. We will find you and apprehend you and put you in a detention facility and deport you.”
Bad Bunny’s selection as the Super Bowl performer is particularly significant as it marks his only scheduled concert appearance in the U.S. for 2026. His Debí Tirar Más Fotos World Tour, running from December to July 2026, intentionally excludes U.S. venues. In an interview with I-D magazine, he expressed fear of ICE raids as a reason for not touring in the U.S.
In the face of criticism, many artists have come to Bad Bunny’s defense. Shakira, who previously shared the stage with him during the Super Bowl Halftime Show alongside Jennifer Lopez, praised Bad Bunny’s upcoming performance. She stated, “I’m so proud that Bad Bunny, who represents not only Latin culture but also how important Spanish language music has become on a global scale and how universal it has become, is getting to perform on the biggest stage in the world. It’s the perfect moment for a performance like this. I can’t wait to watch it.”
As the controversy continues to unfold, various publications have reported on a viral petition urging the NFL to replace Bad Bunny with country music legend George Strait. Additionally, the right-wing organization Turning Point USA, founded by the late Charlie Kirk, has announced plans to host its own Super Bowl Halftime Show in protest of Bad Bunny’s selection.
The 2026 Super Bowl is scheduled for February 8, and it promises to be an event filled with excitement, cultural significance, and a showcase of musical talent. As the date approaches, the discussions surrounding Bad Bunny’s performance are likely to intensify, reflecting broader societal debates about culture, representation, and entertainment in America.
