Petition to Swap Bad Bunny for George Strait Surpasses 41,000 Signatures

Controversy Over Super Bowl Halftime Show Selection

Over 41,000 individuals have joined a campaign urging the NFL to replace Puerto Rican artist Bad Bunny with country music icon George Strait for the 2026 Super Bowl halftime show. This move has sparked a conversation about the league’s entertainment choices and cultural direction.

A petition on Change.org titled “Replace Bad Bunny with George Strait for the 2026 Super Bowl Halftime Show” states that it has garnered significant support as of Saturday. The petition argues that the halftime show should reflect “the tapestry of American culture” and remain “family-friendly.” Supporters describe Strait as a unifying artist whose music embodies “the heart and soul of American music.”

The petition calls on the NFL to feature Strait, often referred to as the “King of Country,” highlighting his impressive career—a record of over 60 No. 1 hits and more than 40 years in the industry. According to the petition, his “honesty and raw emotions” are essential to foster a sense of unity among Americans during the event, which will take place at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. In contrast, the campaign claims that Bad Bunny “represents none of these values,” pointing out that his drag performances and artistic style clash with traditional family expectations for such a high-profile event.

Reportedly started by Ker Schell, a Texas country music enthusiast, the petition reflects a desire to celebrate “the tradition of American country music.” It resonates particularly with country fans and residents of Strait’s home state, Texas, alongside locals in the Bay Area where the Super Bowl will occur.

The petition’s emergence follows backlash against the NFL’s choice of Bad Bunny as its halftime headliner, announced in late September. This decision ignited boycotts on social media and criticism from various celebrities and former athletes. Former Los Angeles Rams star Eric Dickerson questioned the league’s choice with a statement urging, “If you don’t like America, get out of here.”

Former President Donald Trump also weighed in, calling the selection “absolutely ridiculous” during an interview and mentioning he was unfamiliar with Bad Bunny. Other commentators, including former NASCAR driver Danica Patrick and conservative voices Benny Johnson and Joe Concha, criticized the league for being disconnected from its audience.

Bad Bunny’s performance will mark the first Super Bowl halftime show entirely in Spanish. The artist, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, has previously made waves due to his remarks on U.S. immigration policy and his opposition to ICE officials in Puerto Rico. More recently, he drew attention for being seated during “God Bless America” at a New York Yankees playoff game.

In light of the controversy, Turning Point USA announced an alternative event called The All-American Halftime Show, set for October 9th, coinciding with the Super Bowl in February 2026. This event, which promotes “faith, family, and freedom,” is being presented as an alternative to NFL performances.