For months, the upcoming Super Bowl LX halftime show has been a hot topic, and not just because it promises big music.
US President Donald Trump has been vocally critical of the NFL’s decision to hand the spotlight to Puerto Rican rapper Bad Bunny, citing the artist’s anti-MAGA stance as a sticking point.
Despite Trump’s fierce opposition, the show is still scheduled to go ahead at Levi’s Stadium in San Francisco this Sunday.
Bad Bunny’s Political Stance Sparks Debate
Bad Bunny, born Benito Antonio Martinez, has openly criticized the Trump administration in the past.
He previously cited ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) as a reason for avoiding mainland US tour dates and doubled down on his criticism at the 2026 Grammys.
During the awards, he took a moment to call for “ICE Out” while also promoting a message of love over hate, reminding audiences that while hate can be powerful, love is stronger.
Trump Signals Possible Change of Heart
Although Trump initially declared he would skip the Super Bowl in protest, new reports suggest he might reconsider.
Sports broadcaster Emily Austin shared an insider tip, claiming that Trump is likely to attend the game despite previous statements.
Austin hinted at her source close to the president, suggesting that even if he publicly objects, he could show up, making a surprising political and cultural statement.
Bad Bunny’s Lighthearted Response to Criticism
Since the announcement of his Super Bowl performance, Bad Bunny has responded to the controversy with humor.
Hosting Saturday Night Live in October, he jokingly addressed critics, quipping that viewers had four months to learn Spanish after he spoke in his native tongue.
It’s a playful acknowledgment of the uproar, signaling that he’s aware of the political storm surrounding his stage appearance.
A Powerful Symbol in the Spotlight
Austin argues that Trump attending the Super Bowl could be a “very powerful statement,” showing engagement despite disagreement.
She emphasizes that while Bad Bunny’s political commentary has drawn attention, there’s also a broader message in his work promoting love and unity.
Yet, she laments that the focus has often been on the controversy rather than the positive elements of his message.
Criticism From the Sports World
Austin, who has worked for DAZN and Sports Illustrated, voiced strong opinions about Bad Bunny’s platform at the Super Bowl.
She believes it’s inconsiderate to American football fans seeking a non-political experience to place such a politically vocal artist at center stage.
According to her, performing at the Super Bowl is a privilege, and using it to criticize the country that made his career possible takes that platform for granted.
NFL, Fans, and the Political Divide
The Super Bowl halftime show, traditionally a celebration of music and spectacle, has become a flashpoint for political debate.
Austin points out that NFL organizers need to consider the American audience and reminds performers that millions are watching.
She underscores her point by referencing her own stand at the Grammys, when she remained seated during Billie Eilish’s “F*** ICE” comment—a silent protest that went viral online.
Speaking Up and Polarization
Austin stresses the importance of open discourse, saying that polarization grows when one side is loud and the other remains quiet.
Her argument is that if everyone confidently expressed their opinions, even on controversial topics, public debate could become more normalized and less divisive.
What’s Next
As Sunday approaches, all eyes will be on Levi’s Stadium—not just for the music or the game, but for the cultural and political statements intertwined with the event.
Whether Trump attends or not, the Super Bowl halftime show promises to be a moment that highlights the ongoing tensions between entertainment, politics, and public perception in America.
