Bad Bunny Super Bowl Halftime Show 2023 | Details & News

The Super Bowl halftime show on Sunday featured Puerto Rican reggaeton star Bad Bunny, who had just taken home the Grammy Award for Album of the Year, sparking a wave of reactions across the nation.

Trump’s Criticism

Former President Donald Trump took to his Truth Social platform after the performance, calling the show “completely terrible, one of the worst ever” and saying it was an insult to American greatness. He added that the dancing was “disgusting, especially for young children” and declared that the show “only spreads hate.”

House Speaker Mike Johnson echoed the sentiment, saying he would have preferred an artist who represents “traditional American values.” Trump announced he would not attend the game.

Bad Bunny’s Spectacular Show

Bad Bunny opened his half‑hour set at Levi’s Stadium in a white suit, performing “Tití Me Preguntó” while showcasing scenes from everyday Puerto Rican life, from farmers to boxers. He then moved to “Safaera,” “Gasolina,” and his own hits, raising the Puerto Rican flag on stage.

Surprise guests Lady Gaga and Ricky Martin joined the performance, delivering “Baile Inolvidable” and “Lo Que Le Pasó a Hawaii,” respectively. The show was hailed as a historic moment for Latin American music on America’s biggest stage, following a record‑breaking halftime performance by Kendrick Lamar the previous year.

Historic Moments

Bad Bunny became the first Spanish‑speaking Latino artist to headline the halftime show alone. Midway through the spectacle, he conducted a legal wedding for a couple who had originally invited him to their ceremony, granting them a “half‑wedding” that was broadcast to millions.

He also presented a Grammy prize to a young boy on stage, a gesture some viewers interpreted as a nod to a five‑year‑old who had recently been detained by immigration authorities; ESPN later clarified the child was an actor.

Potential Fallout

Trump supporters have labeled Bad Bunny “Bad Bunny Rabbit” and called for an English‑only performance, while a poll conducted after the show showed mixed public opinion. Analysts suggest the controversy could fuel further debates about cultural representation at major sporting events and may influence future halftime line‑ups.

Bad Bunny hinted that his performance was just the beginning, saying he will continue to bring his culture to the stage and promised more “fun” without giving away spoilers.

Did You Know? Bad Bunny’s halftime set marked the first time a solo Spanish‑speaking Latino artist headlined the Super Bowl halftime show.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter, senior entertainment analyst, notes that Bad Bunny’s high‑profile platform not only underscores the growing influence of Latin music in mainstream U.S. Culture but also highlights the political flashpoints that arise when popular art intersects with national identity debates. The backlash from former President Trump and his base illustrates how cultural moments can become arenas for broader ideological conflicts, potentially shaping future programming decisions for major broadcasters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who performed at the 2026 Super Bowl halftime show?

The halftime show was headlined by Bad Bunny, with surprise appearances by Lady Gaga and Ricky Martin, and featured additional performances by backup dancers and celebrity guests.

What was former President Donald Trump’s reaction to the halftime show?

Trump posted on Truth Social that the show was “terrible,” called it an affront to American greatness, criticized the dancing as inappropriate for children, and announced he would not attend the game.

Did any notable events occur during Bad Bunny’s performance?

Yes. Bad Bunny conducted a legal wedding for a couple during the show, presented a Grammy prize to a young boy on stage, and raised the Puerto Rican flag, marking several historic firsts for the event.

What do you think this blend of music, culture, and politics means for future Super Bowl halftime shows?