Bad Bunny's Controversial Super Bowl Halftime Show Sparks Debate

NY Post readers discuss the backlash over the Puerto Rican artist's performance

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

The Super Bowl LX halftime show featuring Bad Bunny has sparked controversy, with some readers criticizing the performance for being primarily in Spanish and lacking connection to broader American patriotism. Others defended the show, arguing that language should not be an issue and that the production and dancing were entertaining. The debate touches on questions of inclusivity, representation, and the role of the Super Bowl halftime show in reflecting American culture.

Why it matters

The Super Bowl halftime show is one of the most watched television events, and Bad Bunny's performance has reignited discussions around the NFL's efforts to appeal to diverse audiences and whether the halftime show should maintain a more traditional American focus. The debate also highlights ongoing tensions around language, culture, and national identity in the United States.

The details

Bad Bunny, a popular Puerto Rican reggaeton artist, performed several of his hit songs during the Super Bowl LX halftime show. However, his performance, which was primarily in Spanish, drew criticism from some readers who felt it lacked connection to broader American patriotism and the essence of the Super Bowl. Some readers argued that English should have been the preferred language, while others defended Bad Bunny's performance, stating that language should not be an issue and that the production and dancing were entertaining.

  • The Super Bowl LX halftime show took place on February 11, 2026.

The players

Bad Bunny

A popular Puerto Rican reggaeton artist who performed the Super Bowl LX halftime show.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The halftime show for the Super Bowl was well done . . . if you speak Spanish, come from South America or are promoting tourism to Puerto Rico ('Bunny left a Bad taste,' Feb. 10).”

— Jackie Biaggi (nypost.com)

“If Bad Bunny has some talent, then perhaps I missed it. He is, however, adroit at grabbing his crotch and 'singing' thoughtless and offensive lyrics.”

— Lou Maione (nypost.com)

“Bad Bunny's crotch-grabbing performance was a slap in the face to all Americans, especially fans who made the NFL into a multibillion-dollar business.”

— Tom Gagan (nypost.com)

The takeaway

The debate over Bad Bunny's Super Bowl halftime show performance highlights the ongoing tensions around language, culture, and national identity in the United States. While some viewers criticized the performance for being primarily in Spanish and lacking connection to broader American patriotism, others defended it, arguing that language should not be an issue and that the production and dancing were entertaining. This controversy underscores the NFL's efforts to appeal to diverse audiences and the challenges of maintaining a traditional American focus in the halftime show.