Petition against Bad Bunny racks up over 100,000 signatures

A historic moment sparks controversy

The NFL announced Bad Bunny would headline the Super Bowl LX halftime show in 2026, marking a first for a mainly español performance on this stage. This historic choice sparked backlash from some political figures and commentators questioning the selection.​

Despite the controversy, NFL and Roc Nation defended the decision to feature Latin talent on the global platform. Apple Music helped reveal the announcement, amplifying Bad Bunny’s reach worldwide.

The petition reaches historic heights

A Change.org petition calling to replace Bad Bunny with George Strait gained traction soon after launch. By early November, the petition exceeded 100,000 signatures, signaling strong public sentiment on the issue.​

Organizer Kar Shell argued the halftime show should celebrate traditional American family values and music. The high signature count reflects wider cultural tensions about representation at America’s biggest sporting event.

Understanding the core arguments

Petition supporters say recent halftime acts moved away from American musical roots. They believe Bad Bunny’s style and language do not fit family-friendly expectations for the game’s biggest stage.​

The petition praises George Strait for his deep country repertoire and longstanding popularity. Supporters want a country legend to better reflect traditional Super Bowl values.

Who is Bad Bunny?

Puerto Rican artist Benito Martínez Ocasio, known as Bad Bunny, ranks among the world’s most streamed musicians globally. He holds the top spot as Spotify’s highest-streamed Latino artist and third overall worldwide.​

His album Un Verano Sin Ti is Spotify’s most streamed album ever. His concerts have significantly boosted Puerto Rico’s economy and cultural stature.

A voice for immigration concerns

Bad Bunny limited U.S. concerts amid fears of immigration raids targeting his fanbase. Choosing to perform only in Puerto Rico showed his commitment to protecting vulnerable Latino communities.​

In interviews, he expressed his concern for fans’ safety over political motivations. He openly criticized Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids in his homeland.

Political figures join the debate

President Trump publicly said he did not know Bad Bunny and called the choice “ridiculous.” His remarks echoed among supporters questioning the NFL’s decision.​

Additionally, a Department of Homeland Security adviser warned ICE might be present during the halftime show. This statement caused uproar for its perceived intimidation against the artist and fans.

Media and cultural backlash

Conservative media labeled Bad Bunny an outsider to American culture for performing in español. Groups like Turning Point USA planned an alternative “All-American Halftime Show” promoting traditional values.​

Fox News hosts questioned whether Spanish should be part of the Super Bowl, ignoring Puerto Rico’s U.S. territory status. This highlighted deeper struggles over American identity.

Historical context of Latino performers

Latino artists like José Feliciano also faced backlash decades ago for performing at major events despite American citizenship. Ricky Martin’s Spanish Grammy performance faced producer resistance in 1999.​

Bad Bunny’s controversy reflects a continuing cultural gatekeeping over language and identity. His show is progress and a reminder of past challenges.

Super Bowl viewership and impact

The previous Super Bowl halftime with Kendrick Lamar and SZA drew record 133.5 million viewers. This shows the platform’s huge cultural importance and public scrutiny over headliners.

Bad Bunny’s global popularity and controversy will likely boost viewership even more. The halftime show unites diverse audiences around a shared cultural moment.

The NFL’s firm stance

Commissioner Roger Goodell defended Bad Bunny’s selection as thoughtful amid inevitable criticism. He stressed the NFL embraces diversity through its partnership with Roc Nation.​

Previous performers like Jennifer Lopez and Shakira paved the way for this Latin representation. The NFL aims to engage global fans while respecting America’s diversity.

Bad Bunny’s powerful response

Bad Bunny addressed critics on Saturday Night Live with humor, playing Fox News clips calling him “my favorite musician.” His satire showed confidence in facing intense backlash.​

He expressed pride in representing the Latino community on this historic stage. His performance is a cultural milestone celebrating multilingual artistry.

Celebrity support grows

Jennifer Lopez, who featured Bad Bunny in her 2020 Super Bowl halftime performance, expressed surprise at the backlash given his prominence in entertainment. Shakira and other stars publicly supported the NFL decision as historic inclusion.​

Actor Adam Sandler, who worked with Bad Bunny, praised his artistry and hailed the Super Bowl honor. Celebrity endorsements boosted positive momentum.

Despite the backlash, plenty of stars are showing their support for Bad Bunny’s upcoming Super Bowl performance.

The road to February 2026

Super Bowl LX will take place on February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, setting the stage for this historic performance. Bad Bunny’s halftime show promises to be a defining cultural moment as millions watch what many consider a breakthrough for Latino artists.

The months leading up to the Super Bowl will likely intensify debate about representation, immigration, and cultural identity in American media. Regardless of ongoing controversy, Bad Bunny’s performance represents a milestone moment.

Jay-Z chimed in on the controversy too, saying he’s unbothered by the backlash and urging fans, “Don’t let them fool you.”

Do you think the backlash against Bad Bunny is fair or overblown? Let us know what you think in the comments.

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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.