On February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, the world watched history unfold at Super Bowl LX, featuring a matchup between the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks. The event, known as 2026 in Santa Clara, marked a historic Super Bowl halftime show. When Bad Bunny took center stage at the Apple Music Super Bowl halftime show, he didn’t just deliver music. He delivered a message that ignited celebration, debate, and political reactions across the United States and beyond. Bad Bunny was the first Latino solo artist to headline the Super Bowl halftime show.
On February 9, 2026, the world was still reacting to the performance, with global debate and discussion continuing to trend.
Held at Levi’s Stadium, the Super Bowl halftime show featured a deeply emotional tribute to Puerto Rico, Latin identity, and unity across the Americas. But what made headlines worldwide was his powerful statement about America and the reaction from Donald Trump, who called the show “absolutely terrible.”
The Apple Music trailer for the halftime show generated significant anticipation, offering a preview of Bad Bunny’s style and the show’s cultural themes.
According to the Associated Press, Bad Bunny’s performance drew 128.2 million viewers domestically across all platforms, making it the fourth most watched halftime show in history. This year’s Super Bowl halftime show wasn’t just entertainment. It became a defining cultural moment.
To commemorate the performance, California Governor Gavin Newsom declared February 8, 2026, as Bad Bunny Day.
Introduction to the Event
The Super Bowl LX halftime show, officially known as the Apple Music Super Bowl LX Halftime Show, was one of the most anticipated music events of the year. On February 8, 2026, Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, became the epicenter of global entertainment as Bad Bunny took the stage. This marked a historic moment: for the first time, a Latino solo artist headlined the Super Bowl halftime show, bringing unprecedented representation to the world’s biggest sporting event.
The bowl lx halftime show was broadcast live across the United States on NBC, Peacock, Telemundo, and NFL+, drawing a staggering 128.2 million domestic viewers across all platforms. The combination of Bad Bunny’s star power and the reach of Apple Music made the Super Bowl LX halftime a true cultural phenomenon, setting new standards for music super bowl lx performances.
What Happened at Bad Bunny’s Halftime Show?
When bad bunny performed at the Apple Music Super Bowl LX halftime show, he emerged from a sugar cane field, symbolizing his roots in Puerto Rico. The stage was transformed into a traditional Puerto Rican home, complete with men playing dominoes, dancers waving the Puerto Rican flag, and scenes inspired by neighbourhoods in San Juan. The set design featured a casita, a traditional Puerto Rican house, and electric poles referencing Puerto Rico’s power issues after Hurricane Maria. The Caribbean Social Club, a symbol of Puerto Rican cultural preservation in Brooklyn, was echoed in the show’s themes of community and resistance to cultural erasure.
Bad Bunny’s halftime show featured hit songs including:
- “Yo Perreo Sola”
- “Monaco”
- “Tití Me Preguntó”
- his hit song “BAILE INOLVIDABLE”
- “NUEVAYoL”
- “DtMF”
- Tracks from his album Debí Tirar Más Fotos
Bad Bunny’s performance included a wedding scene during the halftime show, which was a real wedding officiated live. Bad Bunny served as a witness and signed the marriage certificate, symbolizing community and cultural celebration. During this moment, a message appeared on a giant screen: ‘The only thing more powerful than hate is love.’
The halftime show was criticized by some conservative commentators for its political messaging and use of Spanish, which they felt excluded English-speaking audiences.
The performance featured over 300 dancers and multiple moving stages, creating a dynamic visual experience. The set reflected Puerto Rican culture and history, with traditional clothing, local food vendors, a piragua stand, and dancers dressed as sugar cane workers, referencing the island’s agricultural legacy and colonial past. The show also included visual references to Puerto Rico’s struggles with power outages and the impact of Hurricane Maria. Bad Bunny’s halftime highlighted cultural symbolism and Puerto Rican imagery, reinforcing his heritage and the show’s significance.
Bad Bunny’s halftime was sponsored by Apple Music and Roc Nation. The production team included Julio Himide as production designer and Mónica Monserrate as art director, both contributing to the show’s vibrant visual elements. The performance paid tribute to Puerto Rican artists who paved the way for Bad Bunny’s success, such as Daddy Yankee.
He wasn’t alone. Surprise guests included:
- Lady Gaga, who performed a salsa version of “Die with a Smile” with salsa band Los Sobrinos
- Ricky Martin, who performed Bad Bunny’s song “Lo que le pasó a Hawaii”
- Cardi B
- Karol G
- Pedro Pascal
- Jessica Alba
The atmosphere felt like a huge party celebrating Latin music and heritage. Bad Bunny’s performance as a groundbreaking Puerto Rican artist concluded with him holding a football inscribed with the words ‘Together we are America,’ symbolizing unity across the Americas. Bad Bunny’s halftime show left a lasting impact, blending cultural pride, musical innovation, and a message of unity for a global audience.
The Message That Captured Everyone’s Attention: “God Bless America”
During the emotional finale of Bad Bunny’s halftime show at the Super Bowl, Bad Bunny paused and spoke directly to the audience. He said: “God bless America.”
Then, he listed countries across North America, Central America, and South America while dancers carried their flags behind him. This moment redefined what “America” means—not just the United States, but the entire continent.
By performing almost entirely in Spanish, Bad Bunny made history. He became the first artist to deliver a Super Bowl halftime show entirely in Spanish, sending a powerful message about identity and inclusion. His message reflected pride in Puerto Rican culture and unity across the broader Latino community.
Why Bad Bunny’s Performance Became Controversial
While millions praised the performance, some critics reacted strongly.
President Donald Trump posted on social media calling Bad Bunny’s performance: “Absolutely terrible, one of the worst ever.” He also said: “Nobody understands a word this guy is saying.”
President Trump and the Trump administration publicly opposed Bad Bunny’s performance, and the White House was drawn into the debate, highlighting the political polarization surrounding this year’s Super Bowl.
At the same time, the conservative organization Turning Point USA hosted an alternative all American halftime event featuring Kid Rock and other American artists. This event, positioned as conservative counter-programming, emphasized traditional American values and was viewed by more than 6 million people.
Bad Bunny’s performance occurred amidst a polarized political climate, influencing expectations and reactions during this year’s Super Bowl. The halftime show was met with political criticism from conservative figures, including President Trump, and led to calls for investigations into the performance’s content by some Republican lawmakers, while Democratic lawmakers largely praised the show. Conservative influencers and political figures criticized Bad Bunny for his opposition to President Trump and ICE. Despite the backlash from some conservative commentators, the halftime show received praise for its production, tone, and themes.
This reaction fuelled debate about language, culture, and representation in the Super Bowl.
For supporters, the criticism only reinforced the importance of Bad Bunny’s message.
Bad Bunny’s Words About America Explained
During the Super Bowl halftime, Bad Bunny also delivered a deeply personal speech in Spanish.
He introduced himself by his full name, Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, and encouraged viewers to believe in themselves.
As a Puerto Rican singer, Bad Bunny is no stranger to making history and using his platform to warn Puerto Ricans about ongoing issues affecting the island and its people.
His performance included themes about:
- Puerto Rican identity
- Latino unity
- Cultural pride
- Love over hate
The show addressed political issues such as colonialism, gentrification, and the struggles faced by Puerto Ricans, including visual references to the failing power grid and the impact of Hurricane María. The light blue triangle on the Puerto Rican flag was prominently featured as a symbol of independence and anti-colonial resistance. Bad Bunny’s song ‘Lo que le pasó a Hawaii,’ performed during the show, critiques gentrification and cultural loss in Puerto Rico.
The performance sparked discussions about Latino representation, the Puerto Rican diaspora, and cultural affirmation in the U.S., highlighting the importance of Latino identity.
A message on screen read: “The only thing stronger than hate is love.” This message resonated with millions watching around the world.
Celebrity Reactions and Audience Response
Celebrities like Lady Gaga, Jessica Alba, and Pedro Pascal were seen dancing and celebrating during the Super Bowl halftime show. Fans praised Bad Bunny’s performance as historic and meaningful.
A touching moment featured a young boy watching the performance on TV, symbolizing the impact on the next generation and highlighting how children witness and interpret these cultural milestones.
Social media exploded with reactions, with many calling it one of the most emotional halftime shows ever. Duolingo reported a 35 percent increase in Spanish language learners in the US during and after the performance, underscoring the show’s cultural influence.
Others debated whether politics should be part of the Super Bowl. Regardless of opinions, one thing was clear: Bad Bunny captured global attention.
Why Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl Performance Matters
This year’s Super Bowl halftime show in Santa Clara marked a turning point in Super Bowl history. The reactions to this year’s Super Bowl highlighted the significance of the event, with widespread attention from both entertainment critics and political commentators, underscoring the cultural impact of the halftime show.
Bad Bunny brought Puerto Rican culture to center stage at the most watched sporting event in America. Bad Bunny’s performance was part of the NFL’s broader strategy to engage its growing Latino fanbase, which the league identified as essential to its expansion strategy.
His performance showed that:
- Spanish-language music belongs on global stages
- Latino artists can headline the biggest events
- Cultural pride can reach millions
Bad Bunny’s recent ‘Debí tirar más fotos World Tour’ also showcased Latino unity and cultural pride, further highlighting the importance of Latin music and artists on the world stage.
The show wasn’t just about music, it was about identity.
NFL Strategy: Why Bad Bunny Was Chosen for the Halftime Show
The NFL’s decision to feature Bad Bunny as the headline act for the halftime show was no accident. With over 39 million Latino fans in the United States, the league recognized the importance of connecting with this vibrant and growing audience. Bad Bunny’s influence in music and culture made him the perfect choice to headline the super bowl halftime show, aligning with the NFL’s mission to expand its reach and embrace diversity.
The league’s “Por la cultura” campaign, launched in 2021, was designed to celebrate Latino heritage through Spanish-language broadcasts, cultural partnerships, and stories highlighting Latino players. By selecting Bad Bunny for the halftime show, the NFL sent a clear message: Latino fans and artists are central to the future of football and entertainment.
Symbolism and Hidden Meanings in the Performance
Bad Bunny’s halftime show was more than just a musical spectacle—it was a tapestry of symbolism and cultural pride. The performance opened with Bad Bunny emerging from a field of sugar cane, a powerful nod to Puerto Rico’s agricultural history and the resilience of its people. Traditional Puerto Rican clothing and the vibrant presence of the sapo concho, a critically endangered frog native to the island, underscored the environmental and social challenges facing Puerto Rico today.
The use of light blue throughout the show referenced the Puerto Rican independence movement, adding a subtle layer of political commentary. Every detail, from the music to the choreography, was infused with elements of Puerto Rican culture, making the performance a heartfelt tribute to Bad Bunny’s roots and the broader Latino community.
Visuals and Lighting: The Spectacle Unpacked
The super bowl halftime show dazzled viewers with its breathtaking visuals and innovative stage design. The set recreated a traditional Puerto Rican home, complete with a sugar cane field, a colorful piragua stand, and a charming casita, immersing the audience in the heart of Puerto Rican life. The lighting design pulsed with energy, using bold colors and dynamic effects to match the rhythm and emotion of the music.
Pyrotechnics, fireworks, and cascades of confetti transformed Levi’s Stadium into a vibrant celebration, amplifying the excitement of the halftime show. Every visual element, from the traditional Puerto Rican home to the sweeping stage effects, was carefully crafted to create an unforgettable experience that honored both heritage and spectacle.
Music and Dance: The Heartbeat of the Show
The Apple Music Super Bowl LX Halftime Show pulsed with the infectious rhythms and vibrant spirit of Latin music. Bad Bunny, known for his genre-blending style, transformed the super bowl halftime show into a celebration of Puerto Rican culture and Latin music’s global influence. From the opening beats, the energy was undeniable—reggaeton, salsa, and urban Latin sounds filled Levi’s Stadium, inviting millions to dance along.
The choreography was a visual feast, with hundreds of dancers moving in perfect sync, their costumes reflecting the colors and traditions of Puerto Rico. The stage came alive with traditional instruments, from congas to timbales, and the unmistakable sound of salsa. Special guests Lady Gaga and Ricky Martin brought their own flair to the bowl lx halftime show, with Lady Gaga joining a salsa band for a show-stopping rendition and Ricky Martin infusing the performance with his signature charisma.
Bad Bunny’s setlist was a journey through his biggest hits, including “Yo Perreo Sola” and “Tití Me Preguntó,” each song accompanied by dynamic dance routines that showcased the diversity of Latin culture. The halftime show was more than just a concert—it was a statement about the power of music to unite, uplift, and celebrate identity. As Bad Bunny declared “God bless America,” the message was clear: Latin culture is an essential part of the American story, and the super bowl lx halftime was its stage.
Did Bad Bunny Perforn at the Super Bowl 2026?
Yes. Bad Bunny was the official Super Bowl LX halftime performer at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara.
He headlined the Apple Music Super Bowl halftime show and delivered a historic performance watched by millions worldwide.
Who Performed With Bad Bunny at the Super Bowl Halftime Show?
Special guest performers during Bad Bunny’s halftime show included:
- Lady Gaga, who performed a salsa version of her song “Die with a Smile”
- Ricky Martin, who performed Bad Bunny’s song “Lo Que Le Pasó a Hawaii”
Celebrity appearances included Pedro Pascal and Jessica Alba.
Their presence made the Super Bowl halftime feel like a global celebration of Latin culture.
What Did Bad Bunny Say About America?
Bad Bunny said, “God bless America.”
He then named countries across the Americas, emphasizing unity.
His message focused on inclusion, cultural pride, and redefining what America means.
Payment and Compensation: What Did Bad Bunny Earn?
While the Super Bowl halftime show is one of the most prestigious gigs in entertainment, the pay for performers is surprisingly modest. Bad Bunny, like previous halftime show headliners, received union scale pay—about $1,000 per day as set by the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA).
However, the real value lies in the exposure: the Super Bowl halftime show offers a global platform that can boost an artist’s career and influence overnight. The NFL also covers all production expenses, which can run into the millions, ensuring that the halftime show is a world-class spectacle. For Bad Bunny, the opportunity to perform at the super bowl halftime was not just about the paycheck—it was about making history and sharing Puerto Rican culture with the world.
Experience the Language Behind Global Cultural Moments
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