Man Flies Across Country to Be 'Dancing Grass' at Bad Bunny's Super Bowl Halftime Show

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Andrew Athias, a 33-year-old digital marketer and content creator from Philadelphia, was one of 500 performers who dressed up as dancing grass for Bad Bunny's 2026 Super Bowl halftime show. Athias flew across the country to rehearse for two weeks and perform at the event, which he said was an incredible experience despite the long hours and heavy 40-pound grass costumes.

Why it matters

The Super Bowl halftime show is one of the most watched television events each year, with millions tuning in to see the high-profile musical performances. Athias' story provides a unique behind-the-scenes look at the extensive preparation and costuming that goes into producing the elaborate halftime show production.

The details

Athias found the 'dancing grass' gig through a company called Backlit that handles casting extras for the halftime show. He had to meet certain physical requirements, including being between 5'7" and 6' tall and having an athletic build. The performers had to wear 40-pound grass costumes and rehearse for up to 12 hours a day for the final three days leading up to the Super Bowl. Athias said the costumes were heavy and uncomfortable, with plastic grass blades sometimes poking in unwanted places, but the production crew worked to make them as wearable as possible.

• Athias found the opportunity to be a 'dancing grass' performer last year when he saw Kendrick Lamar at the Super Bowl halftime show.
• Athias applied for the role after Bad Bunny was announced as the 2026 Super Bowl halftime show performer in October.
• Athias flew from Philadelphia to San Francisco in the middle of a snowstorm and spent two weeks rehearsing for the big event.
• The final three rehearsals before the Super Bowl each lasted 12 hours.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Athias said the hardest part of the gig was keeping quiet about his involvement, as he had to sign a non-disclosure agreement and couldn't share details or post on social media for two weeks leading up to the Super Bowl.