Bad Bunny to headline the Super Bowl halftime show amid controversy
- Bad Bunny was announced as the headliner for the halftime show at Super Bowl LX on February 8, 2026.
- This decision comes after his historic residency in Puerto Rico and numerous Latin Grammy nominations.
- His selection has sparked both excitement and backlash, reflecting broader cultural discussions in the NFL.
In a significant announcement, Bad Bunny is set to headline the Super Bowl LVX halftime show on February 8, 2026, at Levi's Stadium located in Santa Clara, California. This decision was made by the NFL in collaboration with Apple Music and Roc Nation, showcasing the growing influence of Latin music within mainstream American culture. Bad Bunny has made waves in the industry, particularly with his recent achievements, including a highly successful residency in Puerto Rico, which was attended by over half a million fans, reinforcing his position as a global superstar. His selection as the performer comes at a time when he leads the nominations for the upcoming Latin Grammys with 12 nominations, demonstrating his outstanding impact in the music industry. Despite previously expressing hesitance to perform in the U.S. due to concerns over immigration enforcement, he has embraced this opportunity as a major cultural moment that serves not just as a performance, but as a tribute to his heritage. Bad Bunny stated, "This is for my people, my culture, and our history," indicating the significance of his role in the event. The announcement has sparked various reactions online, resulting in some backlash from conservative commentators while others have praised his contributions to music and culture. This controversy highlights a broader discussion about the event's inclusivity and the evolving nature of entertainment within the NFL. Jay-Z of Roc Nation expressed admiration for Bad Bunny’s work, emphasizing that his achievements are inspiring and worthy of a platform as prestigious as the Super Bowl. As the event approaches, Bad Bunny will likely continue to draw attention not only for his performance but also for the implications it has about the representation of Latin culture in dominant American entertainment spaces. The upcoming halftime show is poised to be a pivotal moment for both the artist and the larger Latino community, potentially influencing the perception of Latin music in the context of mainstream American culture.