Boycotting Bad Bunny: MAGA Fans Push Back Against Super Bowl 2026 Halftime Show

The announcement of Bad Bunny as the headliner for the Super Bowl 60 Halftime Show has triggered a wave of criticism from some Donald Trump supporters. The phrase “Boycott Bad Bunny” began trending on X (formerly Twitter) after the NFL’s announcement on Sunday night.

Many conservative fans argue that the Puerto Rican superstar’s political history makes him a controversial choice. Bad Bunny has openly criticized former President Trump and performed with anti-Trump messages in the past, including wearing a T-shirt on “Saturday Night Live” in 2020 that had “TRUMP” crossed out in red.

Backlash Over Bad Bunny’s Politics

The NFL confirmed that Bad Bunny will headline the halftime show at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, on February 8, 2026. The event will be part of the league’s ongoing partnership with Apple Music and Roc Nation. Jay-Z, who helped select the artist, praised Bad Bunny’s cultural impact, calling his work “truly inspiring.”

Some Trump supporters, however, reacted with anger. Posts using the hashtag #BoycottBadBunny accuse the NFL of “pushing politics” into football. One user wrote, “Bad Bunny hates Trump and America. Why is the NFL having him perform? I’ll be turning the game off at halftime.” Another post read, “Keep the halftime show about football, not politics. #BoycottBadBunny.”

Bad Bunny has previously expressed concerns about U.S. immigration policies. In an interview earlier this month, he mentioned worries about ICE presence at his concerts. Supporters see his performance as a celebration of Puerto Rican and Latino culture, while critics say his views clash with their political values.

Mixed Fan Reactions and Potential Impact

While the boycott call has gained traction on social media, many fans are celebrating the choice. Supporters argue that Bad Bunny is one of the most influential artists globally, with a massive following across Latin America and the U.S. They see the halftime show as a reflection of diversity and cultural pride.

The NFL has not issued an official response to the online backlash. Historically, the league faces debate over its halftime show performers, but this year’s criticism is more politically driven. Whether the boycott will affect viewership or sponsorship engagement remains uncertain. For now, the controversy has fueled cultural debate months before the big game.

“Boycotting Bad Bunny” shows how entertainment and politics continue to collide at the Super Bowl. Fans will be watching to see whether the online movement turns into real action when the 2026 halftime show airs.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why are people boycotting Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl show?

Some Trump supporters oppose his past criticism of Donald Trump and see the NFL’s choice as political.

Q2: When is the Super Bowl 2026 Halftime Show?

It’s scheduled for February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.

Q3: Who selected Bad Bunny for the halftime show?

The NFL chose him in partnership with Apple Music and Roc Nation, with Jay-Z helping to lead the selection.

Q4: Could the boycott affect Super Bowl viewership?

It’s unclear. Online movements sometimes trend but don’t always cause measurable changes in ratings.

Q5: Has the NFL responded to the boycott calls?

No. The league has not commented on the social media backlash so far.

References

Reuters. (2025). “Bad Bunny to headline Super Bowl 60 halftime show as MAGA backlash grows.” September 29, 2025.

Associated Press. (2025). “Bad Bunny named Super Bowl halftime headliner amid political debate.” September 29, 2025.

BBC News. (2025). “Super Bowl 2026 halftime show choice sparks MAGA boycott calls.” September 30, 2025.