Bad Bunny to Headline Historic Super Bowl Halftime Show

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When Bad Bunny takes the stage at the Super Bowl on Sunday, he'll be the first solo artist to headline a mostly Spanish-language halftime show. He previously appeared as a guest when Shakira and Jennifer Lopez co-headlined the show in 2020. Considering he's one of the world's biggest stars, it's probably not a surprise that the Grammy album of the year winner was chosen to headline one of the world's biggest stages.

Why it matters

The Super Bowl halftime show has evolved from marching bands and legacy acts to a showcase for today's biggest pop, rock and country superstars. Bad Bunny's selection marks a historic milestone, as he will be the first solo Latin artist to lead the high-profile performance. This reflects the growing influence and popularity of Latin music and artists on the global stage.

The details

Before 1991, halftime entertainment typically consisted of marching bands, legacy performers, or vocal troupes. But the concept of current big-name pop, rock or country stars performing at halftime only dates back to 1991, when New Kids on the Block headlined. After Michael Jackson's 1993 performance, which featured a huge inflatable globe and a choir of over 3,000 local children, stars and spectacles became the rule going forward. The halftime show has been plagued by controversy in recent years, starting with 2004's infamous 'Nipplegate' incident with Justin Timberlake and Janet Jackson.

• Bad Bunny will headline the Super Bowl halftime show on Sunday, February 12, 2026.
• Shakira and Jennifer Lopez co-headlined the Super Bowl halftime show in 2020.