Conservative football enthusiasts online are showing displeasure following the NFL’s announcement to feature a prominent pop star critical of U.S. President Donald Trump at the 2026 Super Bowl halftime show. Bad Bunny, known for his chart-topping hits like those from the album “DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS” and the most streamed album on Spotify, “Un Verano Sin Ti,” has sparked controversy among conservative voices. Concerns are raised over the Puerto Rican artist potentially using the platform to criticize Trump, his gender-fluid style of dress, and predominantly Spanish-language songs.
Critics, including conservative activist Robby Starbuck, argue that Bad Bunny’s selection may polarize fans instead of uniting them. Despite the backlash, culture critic Stacy Lee Kong notes that Bad Bunny’s appeal extends beyond the Spanish-speaking demographic in the U.S. Kong suggests that even those disapproving of the choice might tune in out of curiosity or to express dissent online.
While some question the NFL’s decision, citing potential political messaging, others view it as a strategic move due to Bad Bunny’s immense popularity. The artist previously appeared at the 2020 Super Bowl halftime show alongside Shakira and Jennifer Lopez. The NFL, Apple Music, and Roc Nation, Jay-Z’s entertainment company, jointly announced the selection.
Bad Bunny, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, recently completed a successful residency in Puerto Rico but declined a U.S. tour, citing concerns about ICE raids targeting Latinos. Critics have called him out for agreeing to perform at the Super Bowl despite his previous stance. The discussion has also turned to the safety measures needed to protect his team at the event.
The artist’s history of criticizing Trump, particularly regarding Hurricane Maria’s aftermath and his support for LGBTQ+ rights, has further fueled the controversy. As the Latino fanbase grows in the NFL, the choice of Bad Bunny has evoked mixed reactions, with some feeling alienated by the league’s selection of a politically outspoken figure for a traditionally American event.
Notably, the uproar echoes past halftime show controversies, such as Kendrick Lamar’s performance in 2025, which also garnered significant attention and broke viewership records. Despite differing opinions, Bad Bunny’s upcoming Super Bowl appearance continues to generate buzz, setting the stage for a potentially divisive yet impactful show.
