NFL Remains Resolute on Bad Bunny Halftime Show Performance Despite Trump Criticism
America's top football league has no plans to remove Bad Bunny as the star attraction for the prestigious mid-game entertainment, Commissioner Roger Goodell announced this week.
With this affirmation, Goodell reaffirmed the choice to feature the internationally acclaimed singer on the most-watched platform, a move that drew criticism from Donald Trump and some of his supporters.
Goodell commented on the controversy during his media briefing following the annual fall owners meeting. This marks the initial instance he has spoken out on the appointment, which has attracted worldwide attention, including a surge in online plays of the artist's catalog alongside backlash.
“The decision was thoroughly considered,” Goodell remarked. “I’m not sure we’ve ever selected an artist where we didn’t have pushback or criticism. It’s challenging to do when you have literally hundreds of millions of fans that are watching.”
Bad Bunny, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, has been a vocal opponent of Trump. He recently decided to do a month-long concert series in Puerto Rico, avoiding stops in the mainland US, referencing apprehensions about the expulsion of Hispanic individuals.
The 31-year-old, who sings primarily in his native language, is anticipated to continue this at the big game.
“We’re confident it will deliver a spectacular performance,” Goodell commented. “He understands the opportunity that he has, and in my view it will prove exciting and a united experience.”
The host team are hosting the Super Bowl on February 8 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. There is uncertainty if Trump intends to attend, though he has turned appearing in person at major sporting events a significant part of his current presidency.
The political figure in an interview on right-leaning media Newsmax claimed he had “never heard of” the performer.
“I’m unfamiliar with who he is,” Trump said. “I don’t know why they’re doing it. It seems absurd. And then, they attribute it to an outside booker they contracted to pick up talent. I think it’s absolutely ridiculous.”
Goodell supported the decision this week, explaining it was determined because of the artist’s immense popularity.
“He ranks among the top and most popular performers in the world,” Goodell said. “That’s what we try to accomplish. It’s an important platform for us. It serves as a key element to the entertainment value.”