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Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny delivered a high-energy, culturally rich performance during Sunday’s Super Bowl halftime show, turning the event into a vibrant street-party celebration of his heritage. The performance featured surprise appearances by Lady Gaga and a tribute from reggaeton pioneer Daddy Yankee, while also highlighting Puerto Rico’s resilience and pride.
A Celebration of Puerto Rican Culture
The 31-year-old singer, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martinez Ocasio, opened his Spanish-language set with hits “Titi Me Pregunto” and “Yo Perreo Sola,” creating an infectious party atmosphere with a cast of dancers and a backdrop reminiscent of a Puerto Rican home, known as “La Casita.”
The performance included detailed cultural elements such as a sugar cane plantation, a traditional piragua cart, and a wedding scene. Guest stars Pedro Pascal, Jessica Alba, and rapper Cardi B joined Bad Bunny, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Bad Bunny’s attire featured an all-white ensemble with a football jersey displaying “64” and “Ocasio,” later paired with a stylish suit jacket.
Subtle Political Messaging
Although previously outspoken about the Trump administration’s immigration policies, Bad Bunny kept his Super Bowl performance largely non-political, focusing instead on symbolism and cultural pride. His song “El Apagon” (Blackout) highlighted ongoing issues in Puerto Rico, including unreliable power grids and the displacement of residents, while he waved the Puerto Rican flag on stage.
A notable moment featured a young boy watching the Grammys on an old television set, receiving a golden gramophone from Bad Bunny—possibly representing a younger version of himself. Rumors circulated online linking the child to a detained Ecuadorian immigrant, but the NFL confirmed the boy was an actor.
Surprise Guests and Musical Highlights
The halftime show included surprise appearances by Lady Gaga and Puerto Rican singer Ricky Martin. Gaga performed a Latin-infused version of “Die with a Smile,” delivering the only English lyrics of the set, while Martin joined to celebrate Latin music and culture.
The performance ended with a football spiked by Bad Bunny reading “Together, we are America,” and a stadium screen displaying the message: “The only thing more powerful than hate is love.”
Trump Criticism and Public Reaction
Despite the inclusive message, former President Donald Trump criticized the show on Truth Social, claiming, “Nobody understands a word this guy is saying,” and calling it “an affront to the Greatness of America.” Data shows over 41 million Americans speak Spanish, highlighting the growing cultural diversity of the audience.
From Vega Baja to Global Stardom
Bad Bunny grew up in Vega Baja, Puerto Rico, working at a supermarket before gaining attention on SoundCloud. He has since become a global reggaeton sensation, winning Album of the Year at the Grammys for “Debi Tirar Mas Fotos”, the first Spanish-language album to receive music’s top honor.
The Super Bowl performance further cemented his role as a cultural ambassador for Puerto Rico, inspiring pride across the island. Olvin Reyes, a local resident, commented, “For someone from here to be at one of the most important events in the United States is a source of pride for every Puerto Rican.”
