Bad Bunny’s headlining performance at the Super Bowl 60 halftime show is drawing national attention, with fans and critics debating the broader meaning behind the historic moment. As one of the first predominantly Spanish-language artists to lead the NFL’s biggest stage, the Puerto Rican superstar is turning the halftime spotlight into a conversation about culture, identity, and representation.
Following headlines at the Grammys and months of anticipation, many viewers wondered whether the artist — born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio — would use the performance to deliver a political message. Others say his presence alone carries meaning.
“One thing about Bad Bunny is that he is a master at the art of surprise,” said Petra Rivera-Rideau, an associate professor who studies Latin music and U.S.-Latinx pop culture.
“I think a lot of people are expecting him to have a political message in there,” added Mike Alfaro, creator of Millennial Lotería. “I think just him being there is the political message.”
The NFL’s choice sparked both celebration and backlash. Supporters praised the move as a milestone for Latino visibility and Spanish-language music. Critics questioned the decision, with some political figures voicing opposition. President Donald Trump called the lineup a “terrible choice” and said he would not attend the game.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell defended the selection, saying, “Listen, Bad Bunny is … one of the great artists in the world, and that’s one of the reasons we chose him.” He added that the halftime show aims to unite audiences through creativity and performance.
Beyond music, Bad Bunny has built a reputation for addressing social and political issues tied to Puerto Rico and the broader Latino community. His lyrics often reference economic pressures, migration, and local activism. During past TV appearances and tours, he has spoken about hurricane recovery efforts, government accountability, and violence against marginalized groups.
Scholars and fans note that his latest album leans even further into those themes, mixing Afro-Puerto Rican musical traditions with commentary on gentrification and cultural pride. His connection to Puerto Rican identity remains central to his work, both on and off the stage.
For many Latino viewers, the halftime show carries symbolic weight. Spanish is the most widely spoken non-English language in the United States, and millions see the performance as recognition of a community long underrepresented at major national events.
“There are more people that speak Spanish here in the United States than in my home country of Guatemala,” Alfaro said. “I think it’s important to understand that music is a universal language, even if you don’t quite understand what they’re saying.”
Across cities with large Puerto Rican and Latino populations, watch parties and celebrations reflect the excitement. Business owners and fans describe the moment as a source of pride that extends far beyond football.
Whether the show includes direct political messaging or focuses purely on music, Bad Bunny’s halftime appearance is already seen as a landmark for Latin culture in mainstream American entertainment — a performance that blends pop spectacle with deeper cultural meaning.
