Bad Bunny Responds to Critics Ahead of Super Bowl Halftime Show

Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny addressed criticism regarding his upcoming Super Bowl halftime performance during the season opener of Saturday Night Live. In a bilingual monologue, he took aim at right-wing critics who objected to his participation due to the language of his music and his previous reluctance to perform on the U.S. mainland.

The artist, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, recently concluded a successful residency in Puerto Rico. He had previously announced that his world tour would not include shows on the U.S. mainland, citing concerns over immigration policies under former President Donald Trump. His announcement as the headliner for the Super Bowl, scheduled for February 8, 2026, in Santa Clara, California, sparked backlash from conservative commentators who argued that the NFL should avoid featuring an artist primarily known for singing in Spanish.

During his appearance on Saturday Night Live, Bad Bunny confidently declared, “You might not know this, but I’m doing the Super Bowl halftime show,” earning enthusiastic applause from the audience. He expressed his excitement, stating, “I’m very happy and I think everyone is happy about it, even Fox News,” and transitioned into a montage of clips from various personalities praising him.

In a moment that resonated with many, he emphasized the significance of his performance for the Latino community in the United States. Speaking in Spanish, he remarked, “Our footprints and our contribution in this country – no one will ever be able to take that away or erase it.” He concluded his segment with a cheeky remark directed at his critics: “If you didn’t understand what I just said, you have four months to learn.”

The Super Bowl halftime show has evolved into a significant cultural event, with the National Football League partnering with Roc Nation in 2019 to enhance its entertainment offerings. The partnership, established by rap icon Jay-Z, aims to improve the selection of artists for the halftime show, which has featured renowned performers such as Jennifer Lopez, Shakira, and Rihanna in recent years.

Bad Bunny’s participation marks a notable moment for representation in mainstream entertainment, as he joins a roster of artists who have significantly impacted the music scene both in the U.S. and globally. His commitment to addressing critics highlights his determination to celebrate his heritage while reaching a wider audience.