Bad Bunny's Super Bowl Halftime Show Sparks Controversy

Conservative lawmakers call for investigation into 'disturbing' performance

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Bad Bunny's record-breaking Super Bowl LX halftime show, viewed by 135.4 million people, has ignited a political firestorm. Republican lawmakers have announced an investigation into the performance, citing 'explicit displays' and 'disturbing' lyrics, despite admitting they don't understand the language. This has sparked questions about the basis of the investigation and the potential for misinterpretation. The situation escalated with threats of FCC complaints, though reports indicate Bad Bunny self-censored his lyrics.

Why it matters

This incident reflects a broader trend of increasing politicization of entertainment, particularly during large-scale events like the Super Bowl. The backlash against Bad Bunny mirrors similar controversies surrounding previous halftime shows and other cultural moments, where the selection of performers is now routinely scrutinized through a political lens.

The details

Republican Congressman Mark Alford announced an investigation into Bad Bunny's performance, citing 'explicit displays' and 'disturbing' lyrics, despite admitting he doesn't speak Spanish. Representative Andy Ogles echoed these concerns, labeling the performance 'pure smut.' Congressman Randy Fine claimed the performance was 'illegal' due to the use of profanity and threatened to file a complaint with the FCC. However, reports indicate that Bad Bunny actually self-censored his lyrics, removing potentially offensive language from his setlist.

  • Bad Bunny's record-breaking Super Bowl LX halftime show was viewed by 135.4 million people.

The players

Bad Bunny

A Puerto Rican singer and rapper who performed the record-breaking Super Bowl LX halftime show.

Mark Alford

A Republican Congressman who announced an investigation into Bad Bunny's performance, despite admitting he doesn't speak Spanish.

Andy Ogles

A Republican Representative who echoed concerns about Bad Bunny's performance, labeling it 'pure smut.'

Randy Fine

A Republican Congressman who claimed Bad Bunny's performance was 'illegal' due to the use of profanity and threatened to file a complaint with the FCC.

Turning Point USA (TPUSA)

A conservative organization that organized an 'All-American Halftime Show' featuring Kid Rock in response to the NFL's choice of Bad Bunny.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of cultural understanding and linguistic competence when criticizing artistic expression. Mischaracterizations and unfair accusations based on a lack of context can lead to further polarization and undermine meaningful dialogue.