Santa Clara, California, October 23, 2025
News Summary
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell affirmed the decision to have Bad Bunny perform at the Super Bowl LX halftime show amid criticism from various notable figures, including former President Donald Trump. Goodell highlighted that the decision was well-considered and indicated that Bad Bunny’s popularity as a Grammy-winning artist underscores his significance in today’s music industry. Local leaders support Bad Bunny’s inclusion, emphasizing the need for inclusivity at the event, despite a petition calling for a replacement artist garnering over 71,000 signatures.
Santa Clara, California – NFL Commissioner Defends Bad Bunny as Super Bowl LX Halftime Performer
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has confirmed that the league will continue with its decision to feature Puerto Rican artist Bad Bunny as the halftime performer for Super Bowl LX, despite facing criticism from various notable figures, including former President Donald Trump. This announcement was made during a news conference following the NFL’s fall meeting.
Goodell reassured fans and stakeholders that the choice of Bad Bunny, whose full name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, has been “carefully thought through.” He acknowledged that any artist selected for the Super Bowl is likely to encounter some level of scrutiny due to the event’s massive audience. The backlash over Bad Bunny’s selection has caught the attention of the public and media, with critics arguing against the decision.
Bad Bunny is set to perform on February 8, 2024, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, and is expected to showcase his music in Spanish. His inclusion represents a significant nod to the growing importance and influence of Latin music in mainstream culture. Additionally, his substantial popularity as a Grammy-winning artist puts him among the leading entertainers in the world, which was highlighted by Goodell as a reason for backing his performance.
Despite the support from the NFL, the decision has drawn scathing remarks from Trump who claims to have “never heard of” Bad Bunny and described the choice as “crazy and absolutely ridiculous.” A petition in Virginia advocating for the replacement of Bad Bunny with country artist George Strait has garnered over 71,000 signatures, reflecting a segment of the fanbase’s discontent.
In response to the criticism, Bad Bunny has made it clear that he opposes Trump and his policies. He previously conducted a 31-day residency in Puerto Rico, deliberately avoiding the mainland United States due to concerns of deportation affecting Latinos. This aspect of his activism may be contributing to some of the backlash related to his Super Bowl performance.
Support for Bad Bunny’s participation has emerged from local leaders, including California Governor Gavin Newsom and Santa Clara Mayor Lisa Gillmor. They emphasize the importance of inclusivity in this high-profile event and assure the public that measures will be taken to protect attendees, particularly regarding concerns related to the presence of ICE at the Super Bowl.
In addition to the ongoing discussion about Bad Bunny’s halftime show, Goodell outlined other key topics raised during the meeting, such as updates on replay reviews, the duration of games, and collective bargaining negotiations with the players’ union. Key decisions, including the potential expansion of the regular season to 18 games, will be postponed until the NFL Players Association appoints a permanent executive director. Future plans regarding host sites for the Super Bowl in 2028 and 2029 are also underway, with an expected announcement next year.
As the countdown to Super Bowl LX begins, the conversation around Bad Bunny’s performance serves as a reflection of broader cultural dynamics, illustrating both the support for and challenges faced by artists in a politically charged environment.
FAQ
Who is the halftime performer for Super Bowl LX?
The halftime performer for Super Bowl LX is Puerto Rican artist Bad Bunny.
When is Super Bowl LX scheduled to take place?
Super Bowl LX is scheduled for February 8, 2024.
Why has Bad Bunny faced criticism for his performance?
Bad Bunny has faced criticism partly because of his political stance against former President Trump and his policies, leading some individuals to question his selection as performer. Additionally, a petition has been started to replace him with another artist, George Strait.
What measures is the NFL taking to ensure safety at the event?
The NFL and local officials have reassured the public that there will be measures in place to protect attendees, particularly regarding concerns about ICE’s presence during the Super Bowl.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Halftime Performer | Bad Bunny |
| Date of Event | February 8, 2024 |
| Location | Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, California |
| Critics | Former President Trump and supporters |
| Supporters | Gov. Gavin Newsom, Mayor Lisa Gillmor |
| Petition Signatures | Over 71,000 for replacement with George Strait |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- NBC Bay Area
- Wikipedia: Super Bowl
- San Francisco Chronicle
- Google Search: Bad Bunny Super Bowl Halftime Show
- The Spun
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Super Bowl
- San Jose Spotlight
- Google News: Bad Bunny Halftime Show
Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
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