Trump Criticizes ‘Ridiculous’ Bad Bunny Super Bowl Halftime Choice

Former President Donald Trump has criticized the choice of Puerto Rican artist Bad Bunny as the halftime performer for Super Bowl LX, scheduled for February 8, 2026. During an interview on Newsmax, Trump described the decision as “absolutely ridiculous.” He questioned Bad Bunny’s appeal, stating, “This guy does not seem like a unifying entertainer.” Trump emphasized that many viewers may not even know who Bad Bunny is.
Overview of Bad Bunny’s Performance
The NFL announced Bad Bunny’s performance at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, in September 2025. Bad Bunny, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, is a three-time Grammy award winner and one of the most-streamed global artists. He expressed his excitement about performing, highlighting its significance as a cultural milestone.
Bad Bunny’s Impact and Response
- Bad Bunny sees his Super Bowl performance as transcending personal achievement.
- He stated, “It’s for my people, my culture, and our history.”
- His message resonates particularly with Latino communities across the United States.
Despite the excitement surrounding the event, Trump’s comments reflect a broader backlash from specific political figures and commentators, including Danica Patrick and Corey Lewandowski. The latter mentioned concerns regarding the presence of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents during the performance.
Defending His Performance
In a recent “Saturday Night Live” monologue, Bad Bunny addressed his critics directly. He affirmed his enthusiasm for the Super Bowl stage and acknowledged the support from his fans. He also encouraged those unfamiliar with his message to use the time leading up to the event to learn more.
Production Details
The Super Bowl LX halftime show will be executive produced by Roc Nation and Jesse Collins. This major event marks another milestone for a genre that continues to evolve, showcasing diverse talents like Bad Bunny.
The entire spectacle, set against the backdrop of sports’ biggest night, highlights both the cultural significance of the performance and the discussions it ignites across various audiences.