Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl Halftime Show Announcement Sparks Boycott Threats Among NFL Fans
The Super Bowl Halftime Show is often as highly anticipated as the game itself, a cultural moment that brings together millions of viewers across the United States and around the world. This year, however, the NFL’s decision to have Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny headline Super Bowl 60 has ignited a heated debate, with some fans on social media threatening to boycott the performance unless the league opts for an “American” artist.
A Historic Announcement
On Sunday, September 28, Roc Nation, Apple Music, and the NFL made it official: Bad Bunny, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, will headline the 2026 Super Bowl Halftime Show at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. The announcement was made during halftime of the Dallas Cowboys vs. Green Bay Packers game at AT&T Stadium in Texas, sending shockwaves through the sports and entertainment worlds.
Bad Bunny himself expressed deep gratitude in his statement:
“What I’m feeling goes beyond myself. It’s for those who came before me and ran countless yards so I could come in and score a touchdown… this is for my people, my culture, and our history. Ve y dile a tu abuela, que seremos el HALFTIME SHOW DEL SUPER BOWL.”
Roc Nation founder Jay-Z praised the choice, saying, “What Benito has done and continues to do for Puerto Rico is truly inspiring. We are honored to have him on the world’s biggest stage.”
“We Want an American Performer”
While many celebrated the announcement, a vocal segment of NFL fans took to social media to express their discontent. Their objection? Bad Bunny’s Puerto Rican heritage and the fact that his songs are primarily in Spanish.
Comments flooded Twitter, Facebook, and Reddit, with hashtags like #BoycottHalftimeShow and #AmericanMusic trending briefly. Some users argued that the Super Bowl Halftime Show should showcase “American” artists who sing in English, claiming that Bad Bunny’s selection does not represent the country’s culture.
“The halftime show should be about American music and American performers,” one fan tweeted.
Others went further, vowing to skip the show entirely unless the NFL reversed its decision.
Culture, Representation, and Identity
Those opposed to Bad Bunny’s performance cited concerns about cultural representation and accessibility, claiming that viewers may not understand the lyrics and that the show risks losing its “American” identity.
“I want to sing along, but I can’t if it’s all in Spanish,” wrote another commenter.
Yet, supporters of the decision countered with a broader view. Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, and Bad Bunny’s massive popularity in the States is undeniable. His music regularly tops U.S. charts, and his influence extends far beyond Latin audiences.
“America is a melting pot. Puerto Ricans are Americans too,” one fan responded.
Many praised the NFL for embracing diversity and reflecting the changing face of the nation.
Bad Bunny’s Meteoric Year
The controversy comes at a high point in Bad Bunny’s career. Earlier this year, he released his sixth solo album, Debí Tirar Más Fotos, to rave reviews, celebrating his Puerto Rican roots. His 30-day residency at San Juan’s El Choli arena drew thousands of fans, and his final show was streamed globally on Amazon Music.
His world tour, starting in the Dominican Republic this November, will take him across South America, Asia, and Europe—though notably skipping North America—partly due to concerns over U.S. immigration policy and the presence of ICE at concerts.
NFL’s Response and the Bigger Picture
As of publication, the NFL has not commented directly on the boycott threats. Historically, the league has featured a diverse lineup of halftime performers, from Shakira and Jennifer Lopez to The Weeknd and Rihanna, reflecting the multicultural fabric of the country.
The debate over Bad Bunny’s headline spot highlights a broader conversation about identity, inclusion, and the evolving definition of “American” culture. The Super Bowl Halftime Show, watched by over 100 million people annually, is more than just entertainment—it’s a symbol of who gets to stand on the world’s biggest stage.
Will the NFL bow to fan pressure and reconsider its choice? Or will Bad Bunny’s performance mark a new chapter in the celebration of America’s diversity?
As the countdown to Super Bowl 60 begins, one thing is certain: this year’s halftime show will be one of the most talked-about in history, both on and off the field.
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