Photo Credit; Getty Images
President Donald Trump criticized Bad Bunny's Super Bowl LX halftime performance, calling it "absolutely terrible" and "a slap in the face" to America. Speaking on Truth Social after the broadcast from Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif., Trump dismissed the show's Spanish-language lyrics and choreography, claiming "nobody understands a word this guy is saying" and labelling the dancing as "disgusting, especially for young children." He added that the performance "makes no sense" and does not represent the country's standards of success or creativity.
The Puerto Rican superstar, born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, headlined one of the most culturally specific halftime shows in Super Bowl history. Bad Bunny's set celebrated Latin music, reggaeton, and Caribbean rhythms, featuring theatrical nods to his Spanish-language catalog. He also delivered a unifying message by displaying the flags of nations across the Americas and holding a football that read: "Together we are America."
The show followed a week after Bad Bunny made history at the Grammys, winning album of the year for Debí Tirar Más Fotos (I Should Have Taken More Photos), the first Spanish-language album to earn the Recording Academy's top honour. His win included a pointed political statement about Immigration and Customs Enforcement, advocating for humane treatment of immigrants.
Trump's reaction mirrors criticism from conservative circles, which opposed Bad Bunny's selection and highlighted a Turning Point USA alternative halftime show featuring Kid Rock and other pro-Trump performers. The president also used the post to reignite complaints about the NFL's 2024 kickoff rule.
Despite the backlash, many fans and celebrities praised Bad Bunny's performance. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez celebrated the show with Puerto Rican flags, while California Governor Gavin Newsom tweeted, "A beautiful moment! Together, we are
America." Social media buzzed with admiration for the artistry, inclusivity, and energy displayed, demonstrating the global appeal of Bad Bunny's historic performance.
Billboard has reached out to Bad Bunny for comment, though he has not responded publicly as of press time.
