NFL Stands by Bad Bunny's Super Bowl Halftime Performance Amid Criticism
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell confirms Bad Bunny will headline the Super Bowl halftime show, despite criticism from President Donald Trump and others.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has confirmed that Puerto Rican artist Bad Bunny will headline the Super Bowl halftime show, despite criticism from President Donald Trump and others. Goodell addressed the controversy during a news conference following the annual fall owners meeting, stating that the decision was "carefully thought through." He acknowledged that selecting performers often leads to some criticism, given the vast audience.
Bad Bunny, born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, has been vocal in his opposition to Trump's policies and has previously avoided performing in the mainland U.S. due to concerns about immigration enforcement. He performs in Spanish and is expected to do so at the Super Bowl. Goodell expressed confidence in the upcoming performance, emphasizing its potential to be a "united moment."
The Super Bowl is scheduled for February 8 at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California. President Trump, in an interview with Newsmax, claimed he had "never heard of" Bad Bunny and questioned the NFL's choice, calling it "absolutely ridiculous." Goodell defended the decision, highlighting Bad Bunny's status as "one of the leading and most popular entertainers in the world."