Bad Bunny has been announced as the headline performer for the upcoming Super Bowl Halftime Show.
The NFL revealed that Bad Bunny will take center stage at the 2026 Super Bowl Halftime Show, scheduled for February 8 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
This event follows the previous season’s record-setting performance by Kendrick Lamar, which captivated over 130 million viewers worldwide.
Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, professionally known as Bad Bunny, has risen to global prominence by elevating Spanish-language music to unprecedented heights on international charts.
The 31-year-old artist from Puerto Rico boasts an impressive collection of accolades, including three Grammy Awards and twelve Latin Grammys. His chart-topping tracks like “MIA,” “I Like It,” and “Me Porto Bonito” have solidified his status as a global icon.
Inside the Announcement
In an official statement shared by the NFL, Bad Bunny expressed deep pride in representing his heritage:
“My emotions extend far beyond myself. This moment honors those who paved the way, running countless yards so I could score this touchdown. It’s for my community, my culture, and our shared history. Go tell your abuela-we’re taking over the Super Bowl halftime show.”
The announcement video, released by Apple Music and the NFL, features Bad Bunny perched on a beach goalpost, with his hit song “Callaíta” playing softly in the background.
Roc Nation’s Influence on the Halftime Show
The partnership between Roc Nation, Jay-Z’s entertainment company, and the NFL began in 2019 as a response to criticism surrounding the league’s handling of social justice protests initiated by former quarterback Colin Kaepernick.
Since then, the halftime shows have spotlighted some of the most influential figures in hip-hop and R&B, including Usher, Rihanna, and Dr. Dre.
Bad Bunny’s inclusion introduces a fresh Latin flair to the event, following the memorable 2020 performance by Jennifer Lopez and Shakira.
Known for his outspoken stance on social and political matters, particularly those impacting Puerto Rico, Bad Bunny has consistently used his platform to address issues like inequality, governmental corruption, and migrant rights.
In a candid interview with The New York Times, he shared, “Whenever I speak out, it’s because I genuinely feel it. It’s not about followers or fame. I’m a human first, and I speak from the heart.”
Significance Beyond the Stage
Bad Bunny’s appointment as the Super Bowl Halftime Show headliner marks a pivotal moment for Latin music’s global recognition.
Once considered a niche genre, Latin music now commands a dominant presence on worldwide streaming services, with Bad Bunny consistently topping Spotify‘s most-streamed artist charts for multiple years.
The NFL’s decision reflects a strategic effort to engage a more diverse and youthful international audience.
Jon Barker, the NFL’s executive in charge of event production, described Bad Bunny as “an emblem of vitality, innovation, and sincerity who resonates with fans across generations.”
Speculation had circulated for weeks that pop sensation Taylor Swift might headline this year’s show, but the NFL dispelled those rumors by confirming Bad Bunny’s role.
Swift, recently engaged to Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, reportedly could not participate due to scheduling conflicts related to her album release.