Imagine a Super Bowl halftime show that sparks national debate, with the President himself calling it a 'terrible choice.' That's exactly what's happening with Bad Bunny's upcoming performance at Super Bowl LX. The Super Bowl halftime show has evolved into a global phenomenon, drawing over 100 million viewers in the U.S. alone, with millions more tuning in worldwide. It’s a stage graced by legends like Stevie Wonder, Paul McCartney, The Rolling Stones, Prince, Bruce Springsteen, U2, Madonna, and Beyoncé, making it one of music’s most coveted gigs. But here's where it gets controversial: the 2026 headliner, Puerto Rican rapper Bad Bunny, has become a lightning rod for political tension in the U.S.
Following in the footsteps of Rihanna (2023), Usher (2024), and Kendrick Lamar (2025), Bad Bunny’s selection comes hot on the heels of his Grammy win for Album of the Year with DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS (English: I Should Have Taken More Photos). But why is this causing such a stir?
Here’s everything you need to know about the 2026 Super Bowl halftime show:
When Does the Halftime Show Start?
With the Super Bowl kicking off at 10:30 AM AEDT on Monday, February 9, the halftime show is expected to begin just after 12 PM AEDT. It’s the perfect excuse to turn your lunch break into a global event. And this is the part most people miss: the halftime show runs longer than usual, up to 30 minutes, with Bad Bunny’s performance likely clocking in between 12 and 15 minutes.
How to Watch the Halftime Show
For Aussies eager to catch the action, tune in LIVE on ESPN via Kayo Sports. New to Kayo? Join now and get your first month for just $1 here.
Who Is Bad Bunny?
Bad Bunny, born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, is a global music powerhouse and arguably the biggest Spanish-language artist today. He dominated Spotify’s most-streamed artist charts from 2020 to 2022 and again in 2025, proving his universal appeal. While he’s a household name in Latin America and Europe, Aussies might recognize him from his 2018 collaboration with Cardi B on I Like It or his guest appearance during Shakira and Jennifer Lopez’s 2020 Super Bowl performance celebrating Hispanic culture.
The Controversy: Why the President Is Fuming
Puerto Rico, though not a U.S. state, is a U.S. territory, and its citizens are American. Yet, Bad Bunny’s selection has ignited debate. President Donald Trump slammed the choice, saying, “I’m anti-them. I think it’s a terrible choice. All it does is sow hatred.” But NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell defended the decision, calling Bad Bunny “one of the greatest artists in the world” and praising his understanding of the platform. Goodell referenced Bad Bunny’s outspoken criticism of U.S. immigration policies, including his refusal to tour the U.S. mainland over fears of fan safety. At the Grammys, Bad Bunny declared, “ICE out. We are not savages, we are not animals, we are not aliens. We are humans and we are Americans. The only thing more powerful than hate is love.”
What to Expect from Bad Bunny’s Performance
Bad Bunny isn’t just a rapper—he’s a pro wrestling fan who’s stepped into the ring for WWE events like WrestleMania and the Royal Rumble. His halftime setlist is rumored to include hits like Titi Me Pregunto (the likely opener) and DtMF (the Grammy-winning title track as the closer). Fans can also expect BAILE INoLVIDABLE, NUEVAYOL, Safaera, and I Like It. As for guests, Ricky Martin and Lady Gaga are almost guaranteed, while J Balvin, Travis Scott, Rauw Alejandro, and Cardi B are strong contenders. In a surprising twist, wrestlers like Booker T and Ric Flair, along with K-Pop stars HUNTR/X, are also in the running.
The Bigger Question: Is Music Meant to Unite or Divide?
Bad Bunny’s performance isn’t just a concert—it’s a statement. His selection challenges the Super Bowl’s traditional audience and sparks conversations about identity, politics, and art. But here’s the real question: Should music transcend borders and politics, or is it fair to criticize an artist for their views? Let us know in the comments—do you think Bad Bunny’s halftime show is a bold move or a misstep? The debate is just getting started.
