NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell confirmed on Wednesday that Bad Bunny will remain the Super Bowl halftime performer, dismissing calls to drop the Grammy-winning artist. The decision to feature the Puerto Rican star received mixed reactions, including criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump and his supporters.
Speaking at the fall owners meeting, Goodell addressed the controversy surrounding Bad Bunny’s selection, emphasizing that the choice was carefully considered despite the backlash. The 31-year-old artist, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martinez Ocasio, has been vocal in his opposition to Trump and his policies, particularly regarding immigration issues.
Bad Bunny’s upcoming performance at the Super Bowl has sparked both excitement and controversy. The artist, known for his Latin trap and reggaeton music, is expected to deliver a show entirely in Spanish. Goodell expressed confidence in Bad Bunny’s ability to deliver a captivating and unifying performance on the global stage.
The Super Bowl, scheduled for Feb. 8 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif., will be hosted by the San Francisco 49ers. While it remains unclear if Trump will attend the event, his past attendance at major sporting occasions suggests a possibility.
In a recent interview on Newsmax, Trump expressed his lack of familiarity with Bad Bunny and criticized the decision to feature him at the Super Bowl halftime show. Despite the controversy, Goodell defended the choice, highlighting Bad Bunny’s widespread popularity and the entertainment value he brings to the event.
The NFL’s decision to showcase Bad Bunny at the Super Bowl halftime show underscores the league’s commitment to providing diverse and engaging entertainment for its audience.