Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny is set to make history as the first solo Latin male artist to headline the Apple Music Super Bowl LX Halftime Show on February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. The announcement, made during the Green Bay Packers–Dallas Cowboys broadcast on September 29, instantly sparked conversations about representation, culture, and what some are already calling “woke garbage.”
The choice is a milestone for Latin music on the world’s biggest sporting stage, drawing praise from figures like Bruno Mars and California Governor Gavin Newsom. It also drew criticism from conservative voices online, who denounced the NFL’s selection of Bad Bunny’s Spanish-language reggaeton and provocative artistry.
“The NFL is woke garbage,” one X user wrote. Another commented, “I won’t be watching the @nfl this year—it’s too woke for me. What’s next, rainbow helmets?” A third dismissed the announcement: “Apparently this is ‘Bad Bunny.’ The @NFL has selected him to be the Super Bowl halftime performer. I’d rather have a colonoscopy without anesthesia than watch that crap.”
A Historic Moment for Latin Music
Bad Bunny, born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, recently wrapped a record-breaking residency at San Juan’s Coliseo de Puerto Rico José Miguel Agrelot, generating hundreds of millions in tourist revenue. Jay-Z, whose Roc Nation is producing the halftime show alongside the NFL and Apple Music, praised Bad Bunny’s work.
“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,” Jay-Z said. Apple Music executive Oliver Schusser called Bad Bunny’s rise “meteoric” and highlighted his impact on Latin culture.
Bad Bunny Speaks Out
Following the announcement, Bad Bunny called into Apple Music’s Halftime Headliner Special with Zane Lowe and Ebro Darden for his first interview. He shared his excitement, the importance of lifting Puerto Rico and Latin culture, and what viewers can expect from his performance.
“It was… I was keeping this secret for so long and it felt good. It felt really good. More than me, it’s for everyone else,” Bad Bunny said. “I’m really excited for my friends, my family. Puerto Rico, all the Latino people around the world. I’m excited about my culture… it’s a very special thing for us.”
Reflecting on getting the call from Jay-Z, he added, “It’s crazy because I was in the middle of a workout. After the call, I just did like a hundred pull-ups. It was very special.”
He emphasized the performance will showcase more than just his music. “I’m going to enjoy. I’m going to embrace the moment. I’m going to show what we have, our music, our culture. I’m just going to the stage to enjoy and have fun.”
Bad Bunny also touched on the broader growth of Latin music. “I think it’s also the result of just doing things with heart. I’m always doing my best and working with so much passion. I’m still hungry to conquer and show what I can do to the people.”
To get ready for his performance, check out Apple Music’s Bad Bunny Essentials playlist here.
Breaking Barriers
The Apple Music Super Bowl LX Halftime Show has previously featured global stars like Rihanna, The Weeknd, and Shakira, with each performance bringing a unique cultural moment to the audience. Bad Bunny’s selection signals the NFL’s continued focus on diversity and representation, while giving a platform to Latin artists on one of the largest stages in the world.
No matter which side of the internet debate viewers land on, one thing is certain: Bad Bunny’s performance is poised to be unforgettable.
Super Bowl LX kicks off February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara.
