Former President Donald Trump sparked controversy this week when he publicly criticized the NFL’s selection of Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny as the headline performer for the 2026 Super Bowl halftime show. During a media appearance, Trump expressed his disapproval of the lineup, plainly stating, “I don’t even know who Bad Bunny is,” a comment that quickly circulated across social media platforms.
The NFL had announced Bad Bunny as the headliner on September 28, 2025, during a “Sunday Night Football” broadcast, highlighting the three-time Grammy winner’s global appeal and cultural significance. Bad Bunny, known for international hits like “Callaíta,” represents a continuing change toward diverse entertainment at America’s most-watched annual sporting event.
Trump’s remarks appear to reflect a broader disconnection with contemporary popular music trends, particularly as Bad Bunny has emerged as one of the most streamed artists worldwide in recent years. The former president’s comments align with his previous pattern of criticizing changing cultural norms and entertainment choices that diverge from traditional selections.
Trump’s unfamiliarity with Bad Bunny highlights his ongoing resistance to evolving cultural expressions in American entertainment.
The reaction to Trump’s statement has been divided along predictable lines. Supporters view his comments as invigoratingly honest about generational and cultural differences, while critics suggest they demonstrate a troubling disregard for Latin cultural contributions to American entertainment. Media analysts note that the Super Bowl halftime show, which regularly attracts over 100 million viewers, has increasingly become a platform for cultural expression beyond conventional mainstream performers.
Bad Bunny’s selection marks a significant milestone for Latin representation in the Super Bowl halftime tradition. For artists like Bad Bunny, halftime performances can generate substantial income through sync licensing deals with advertisers looking to capitalize on the cultural moment. Music industry experts suggest that artists looking to maximize their Super Bowl exposure should develop pre-save campaigns to capitalize on the massive audience engagement that follows such high-profile performances. The announcement marks a surprising departure from previous reports that Dua Lipa was expected to headline the 2026 halftime performance. The performance is set to take place at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, home of the San Francisco 49ers. Following his announcement as headliner, the artist released a statement emphasizing the importance of representing Puerto Rican culture on such a prominent global stage.
The controversy highlights the intersection of politics, entertainment, and cultural evolution in American society. As the NFL continues to diversify its entertainment lineup to appeal to changing demographics, reactions from political figures like Trump serve as a barometer for broader cultural tensions and shifts in the American landscape.
