Bad Bunny headlines Super Bowl as MAGA voices criticism

Bad Bunny will perform a primarily Spanish halftime set at the Super Bowl in Levi's Stadium, a decision that has drawn criticism from MAGA-aligned figures and praise from others; the selection has highlighted debates about language, identity and immigration policy.

Bad Bunny is set to headline a 13-minute Super Bowl halftime show at Levi's Stadium, largely performed in Spanish. The Puerto Rican artist has mixed música urbana with political themes and has publicly criticized U.S. immigration policies. His recent Grammy wins — including the first Spanish-language album of the year — raised his profile ahead of the game. The choice of a Spanish-language headliner has become a focal point for debates about culture and belonging in the United States. Details and reported developments: - The halftime set is scheduled for 13 minutes at Levi's Stadium and will be performed primarily, and possibly entirely, in Spanish. - Bad Bunny won three Grammys the week before, including album of the year for a Spanish-language record, and has made public statements opposing some immigration policies. - Some conservative figures criticized the selection, demanded an English-only performance, and called for alternatives; Turning Point USA announced an alternative broadcast featuring Kid Rock and country acts. - Former President Donald Trump called the choice "terrible" and said he would skip the game, while NFL commissioner Roger Goodell praised Bad Bunny as a major global artist. - Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem warned ICE would be "all over" the event, and California Governor Gavin Newsom said his office was assured there would be no immigration enforcement tied to the game. - A Quinnipiac poll from October reported that nearly half of Americans approved of the league's decision while 29% disapproved, with support varying by party, age and race. Summary: The halftime selection places a Spanish-language, politically engaged artist on one of the country's largest broadcast stages and has sharpened conversations about language, identity and immigration enforcement. The performance is scheduled for Sunday and will be widely watched; its broader political effects are undetermined at this time.