All Eyes on Bad Bunny: Will SNL’s Saturday Night Live See Him Tackle the Super Bowl-ICE Storm?

All eyes are on Bad Bunny as he returns to host the Season 51 premiere of Saturday Night Live tonight. The Puerto Rican superstar steps onto the iconic Studio 8H stage amid a week of headlines about his upcoming Super Bowl halftime show and the political debate swirling around it.

Bad Bunny, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, was announced earlier this week as the headliner for the 2026 Super Bowl halftime performance. The choice has sparked controversy from some political circles and social media voices questioning the NFL’s decision to select a Spanish-speaking global artist over a U.S.-born performer.

Bad Bunny’s SNL Return Comes Amid Super Bowl Debate

This marks Bad Bunny’s second time as an SNL host after his acclaimed debut in 2023. He will also serve as the night’s musical guest, performing songs from his recent work. Tonight’s episode launches a star-packed opening run for the long-running NBC show, with Amy Poehler and Sabrina Carpenter scheduled to host in the coming weeks.

The conversation surrounding Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl booking grew louder after an old interview resurfaced in which he referenced avoiding U.S. touring at one point because of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Some political figures seized on that remark to question his selection. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem commented that “law-abiding American citizens” should be prioritized, further fueling debate.

Despite the uproar, Bad Bunny’s statement after the announcement leaned on culture and pride rather than controversy. “What I’m feeling goes beyond myself,” he said, adding that the moment was for “my people, my culture, and our history.” Whether he will use his live SNL platform to respond to critics remains unconfirmed. NBC and SNL producers have given no hint about any planned segment addressing the issue.

What Fans Should Expect Tonight

Bad Bunny’s past SNL appearance combined comedy, music, and self-awareness about his global fame. Viewers can likely expect a mix of skits referencing his career and life, especially given the week’s headlines. Still, the show is known for surprises — and with the Super Bowl discussion dominating entertainment news, a playful or pointed moment would not be shocking.

For NBC and SNL, having Bad Bunny lead the season opener is a clear bet on his massive reach. The artist has broken global streaming records, sold out stadiums, and delivered a historic Puerto Rican residency just this weekend. His mix of reggaeton, Latin trap, and pop crossover success makes him one of the world’s most influential musicians.

Whether Bad Bunny uses SNL to address the Super Bowl-ICE storm directly or keeps the focus on music and comedy, tonight’s show will set the tone for his next chapter as a cultural powerhouse.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Will Bad Bunny talk about the Super Bowl controversy on SNL?

There’s no official confirmation. NBC and SNL have not announced any political skits or statements in advance.

Q2: Who is the musical guest tonight?

Bad Bunny is pulling double duty as both host and musical guest for the SNL Season 51 premiere.

Q3: Why is Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl slot controversial?

Some critics argue the NFL should choose an English-speaking, U.S.-born performer. Others support his global cultural impact.

Q4: Has Bad Bunny commented on ICE before?

Yes, an old interview resurfaced where he spoke about avoiding U.S. touring at one point due to ICE-related concerns.

Q5: Who will host SNL after Bad Bunny?

Amy Poehler is scheduled next, followed by singer and actress Sabrina Carpenter later this season.