Jay-Z Stands by Bad Bunny as Super Bowl Halftime Headliner

Jay-Z is standing up for Bad Bunny amid the backlash over the Super Bowl 60 Halftime Show.

Speaking to reporters in New York City on Monday, the music mogul addressed critics who have openly questioned the NFL’s decision to have the Puerto Rican superstar take the stage. Jay-Z’s company, Roc Nation, has worked with the NFL since 2019 to select halftime performers, making him a key voice on the matter.

“Don’t let them fool you,” Jay-Z said, insisting that Americans actually love Bad Bunny more than some of his detractors claim.

The NFL officially announced in September that Bad Bunny would headline the halftime show at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara. Known for performing many of his hits in Spanish, Bad Bunny is one of the world’s biggest music stars, regularly topping streaming charts alongside names like Taylor Swift and Morgan Wallen. The league confirmed the collaboration with Apple Music and Roc Nation.

Despite his global fame, the selection has sparked controversy. A Change.org petition has collected more than 100,000 signatures calling for Bad Bunny to be replaced. Critics argue that his style and performances don’t fit the traditional family-friendly, American-focused tone of the Super Bowl halftime show.

In response to his selection, Bad Bunny shared a statement celebrating the cultural significance of the moment. “What I’m feeling goes beyond myself. It’s for those who came before me and ran countless yards so I could come in and score a touchdown… this is for my people, my culture, and our history. Ve y dile a tu abuela, que seremos el HALFTIME SHOW DEL SUPER BOWL.”

The NFL has remained firm on its decision. Jon Baker, the league’s SVP of Global Event Production, praised Bad Bunny’s ability to connect with fans worldwide. “Bad Bunny represents the global energy and cultural vibrancy that define today’s music scene. As one of the most influential and streamed artists in the world, his unique ability to bridge genres, languages, and audiences makes him an exciting and natural choice to take the Super Bowl halftime stage. We know his dynamic performances, creative vision, and deep connection with fans will deliver the kind of unforgettable experience we’ve come to expect from this iconic cultural moment.”

With Jay-Z’s backing and the NFL standing by their choice, Bad Bunny is set to bring his high-energy performance to millions of viewers, despite the ongoing debate online.

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