Bad Bunny to Headline 2026 Super Bowl Halftime Show Amidst Political Controversy

The announcement that Bad Bunny, a renowned global music icon, will perform at the 2026 Super Bowl Halftime Show has sparked a variety of reactions, including criticism from political figures like Donald Trump. Trump, in a recent interview, voiced his unfamiliarity with Bad Bunny, questioning the decision to have him perform at such a nationally significant event.

In an on-air interview with NewsMax, Trump remarked, “I never heard of him. I don’t know who he is. I don’t know why they’re doing it. It’s, like, crazy.” His comments reflect a broader skepticism about the artist’s relevance to the traditional Super Bowl audience.

Despite the criticism from Trump and his allies, Bad Bunny’s popularity is undeniable. With close to 80 million monthly listeners on Spotify, he remains one of the top streamed artists worldwide. His influence extends beyond his music, with notable performances and record-breaking residencies, such as the historic 31-date stint at Puerto Rico’s Coliseo, which set new sales records.

The Political Controversy Surrounding Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl Performance

Following the announcement of his upcoming Super Bowl performance, Bad Bunny faced a barrage of criticism from right-wing commentators, including Trump’s former campaign manager, Corey Lewandowski, who labeled the selection “shameful” and criticized Bad Bunny’s perceived attitude towards America. Yet, these commentators often overlook that Puerto Rico, where Bad Bunny hails from, is a U.S. territory.

The tension escalated with statements from high-profile political figures suggesting heightened security measures at the event. Kristi Noem, the secretary of homeland security, confirmed the presence of ICE agents at the Super Bowl, intensifying the political overtones of the performance.

Amidst this backdrop, Bad Bunny used his platform on the season 51 premiere of Saturday Night Live to respond to his critics humorously but pointedly. He emphasized the importance of representing his culture and community, even joking that those who didn’t understand his Spanish should take the time to learn it before the Super Bowl.