Bad Bunny to Headline Super Bowl LX Halftime Show

Global superstar Bad Bunny has been unveiled as the headline act for the 2026 Super Bowl Halftime Show, marking a historic moment for Latin music on the world’s biggest sporting stage. The announcement was made by the National Football League (NFL), confirming that the Puerto Rican singer will perform at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, on February 8.

Bad Bunny’s rise to global fame has been nothing short of meteoric. Born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, the 31-year-old has redefined the boundaries of Latin music, blending reggaeton, trap, and pop into a sound that resonates across continents. As the world’s most-streamed Latin artist, his inclusion in one of the most-watched live broadcasts represents both a recognition of his cultural influence and a bold step by the NFL to engage a more diverse global audience.

The Super Bowl Halftime Show remains one of the most coveted stages in entertainment, drawing millions of viewers who often tune in as much for the spectacle as for the game itself. Bad Bunny’s performance follows last season’s record-breaking show by Kendrick Lamar, which attracted more than 130 million viewers. For the NFL, the decision underscores a commitment to showcasing music that reflects the tastes and diversity of its worldwide fan base.

Roc Nation’s Influence on the Halftime Stage

Since partnering with Roc Nation in 2019, the NFL has reimagined its halftime programming, responding to criticism of its cultural inclusivity. The entertainment company founded by Jay-Z has since overseen shows featuring Rihanna, Dr Dre, Snoop Dogg, Usher, and other high-profile names, each performance carefully curated to balance spectacle with cultural relevance.

Bad Bunny’s selection builds on this tradition while also charting new ground. Latin music has made appearances at the Super Bowl before, most notably with Jennifer Lopez and Shakira’s electrifying joint performance in 2020, but this marks the first time a solo Latin artist has been entrusted with carrying the entire halftime spectacle.

His global reach makes him an ideal choice. With three Grammy Awards, 12 Latin Grammys, and multiple chart-topping hits, Bad Bunny has proven his ability to transcend language barriers. His collaborations with international artists and his unique ability to merge local Puerto Rican rhythms with global pop sensibilities have positioned him as one of the most dynamic performers of his generation.

The halftime show, produced by Roc Nation, is expected to combine his signature high-energy stage presence with bold visuals that match the grandeur of the event. While details of the setlist remain under wraps, fans can anticipate a showcase of his most recognizable hits alongside the possibility of surprise guest appearances, a hallmark of recent Super Bowl shows.

A Cultural Milestone for Latin Music

Beyond entertainment, Bad Bunny’s selection signals the deepening influence of Latin music in mainstream global culture. Once considered niche, genres like reggaeton and Latin trap have surged to dominance on streaming platforms, reshaping the sound of contemporary pop. Bad Bunny’s repeated recognition as Spotify’s most-streamed artist of the year illustrates the scale of this transformation, highlighting how Spanish-language music now commands the same visibility as English-language hits.

For the NFL, the decision is more than a booking, it is a strategic move to connect with younger, multicultural audiences. Latin America represents one of the league’s fastest-growing markets, with Mexico and Brazil hosting some of its most enthusiastic international fan bases. By elevating an artist who embodies the vibrancy of Latin youth culture, the NFL is seeking to expand its appeal far beyond the United States.

The announcement also comes at a time when Bad Bunny continues to leverage his platform to champion social and political causes. Known for addressing issues such as inequality, government accountability, and the struggles of Puerto Rico, he represents more than music—he is a cultural ambassador. His upcoming performance is therefore expected to carry symbolic weight, reflecting both artistic achievement and broader cultural pride.

Speculation around the headliner had been intense, with pop star Taylor Swift heavily rumored to take the slot. However, her ongoing album commitments made scheduling difficult, clearing the way for Bad Bunny to make history.

With global anticipation already building, the 2026 Super Bowl Halftime Show promises to be another unforgettable cultural moment. For Bad Bunny, it is both a personal milestone and a testament to the global rise of Latin music. For the NFL, it is a step toward embracing the diversity that defines modern audiences.

When the lights dim at Levi’s Stadium on February 8, all eyes will be on the Puerto Rican superstar as he takes the stage, bringing Latin rhythms to one of the most-watched television events on the planet.