Bad Bunny at the Super Bowl: A Controversial Choice

You might have heard about it, but there’s this little-known artist, Bad Bunny, who, for some reason, is performing at this year’s Super Bowl. It’s a bit surprising, to say the least.

First off, he’s Puerto Rican and primarily sings in Spanish. And, as far as I know, he’s not exactly a fan of Donald Trump, nor does he seem to fit in with conservative ideals. Honestly, it’s a rarity to find a major music figure today who isn’t leaning toward liberal views—Kid Rock might be one of the few exceptions.

Yet, there’s a larger conversation happening here, something deeper than just Bad Bunny. It’s all tied to globalization—this is part of a big trend where the NFL is becoming more of a global brand.

Over the years, the NFL has gradually expanded its reach, with games now played in Europe and Latin America; remember when it all started in London back in 2007? This isn’t just a phase; Brazil is set to host three regular-season games in the next five years. We’re talking about real games, not just preseason warm-ups.

So choosing Bad Bunny as a performer, well, it makes sense for the NFL’s push into global markets, even if it may not resonate as strongly with American fans. Sure, he may not have widespread recognition in the U.S., but internationally, he’s a big deal.

This raises a few questions, though. Is it fair for American season ticket holders if more games are played abroad? Do we really want kids growing up in a world where the NFL shifts its focus overseas? Are we set to see more halftime shows featuring acts that, frankly, many Americans may not even enjoy? And what about ticket prices? Will they shoot up for fans here to accommodate foreign markets?

These concerns matter because they point to a future that seems to prioritize profits over American cultural identity. The NFL’s choice in halftime entertainment is just one aspect of a broader trend driven by executives focused solely on the bottom line. If they truly cared about their core American fanbase, they might consider musicians that resonate more with them, like perhaps Morgan Wallen or Taylor Swift.

Instead, we see artists who cater to Latin American tastes and sing in languages other than English. It casts a shadow over the intent behind their choices.

Who knows, this year’s Super Bowl might very well send a message: that American football should, at its core, remain just that—American.