Why is there so much backlash against Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl Performance?

Super Bowl 60 is this weekend. Yet, the teams playing in the game have gotten less attention than who’s performing at the 2026 Apple Music Super Bowl 60 Halftime Show. 

Bad Bunny is the first solo Latin and Spanish speaking musician to lead the show. The selection of the Puerto Rican born artist sparked conversations across music, sports, and culture—making this more than just a halftime performance. 

In his announcement, he said this is for his people, culture and their history. 

So, what does this moment mean for Latino representation? And furthermore, what does this performance say about the American public’s idea of what it means to be American?

Alejandra Márquez is an Assistant Professor of Spanish Department of Romance and Classical Studies at Michigan State University. She joined The Metro’s Tia Graham to discuss Bad Bunny’s performance and its significance to Latino culture. 

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