Donald Trump has taken aim at Bad Bunny, blasting the NFL’s decision to feature the Puerto Rican superstar as the 2026 Super Bowl Halftime Show headliner, calling it “crazy” and “ridiculous.”
Speaking on Newsmax with Greg Kelly, the US President claimed he had “never heard” of Bad Bunny, a statement that immediately raised eyebrows, considering the artist’s status as one of the world’s most streamed musicians.
“This guy does not seem like a unifying entertainer, and a lot of folks don’t even know who he is,” Kelly said, setting Trump up for his jab.
“I never heard of him. I don’t know who he is. I don’t know why they’re doing it, it’s crazy, and then they blame it on some promoter that they hired to pick up entertainment. I think it’s absolutely ridiculous,” Trump said.
While Trump framed the booking as a misfire, the move has been largely celebrated by fans who view Bad Bunny’s headline slot as a major cultural win, a recognition of Latin music’s global dominance.
The artist hasn’t responded directly to Trump’s remarks but did throw a few sly punches during a recent Saturday Night Live appearance. “Everyone is happy,” he joked. “Even Fox News.” The sketch then cut to a mock montage of conservative commentators edited to say: “Bad Bunny. Is. My favorite. Musician. And he should be the next. President.”
Still, Trump’s comments echo a wider wave of right wing backlash. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem said ICE agents would be “all over” the 2026 Super Bowl, slamming the NFL’s decision to feature a Puerto Rican artist. Corey Lewandowski, Trump’s former campaign manager, also criticised the pick, calling it “shameful” and suggesting Bad Bunny “seems to hate America.”
Bad Bunny has long spoken out against ICE and US immigration policy. In a recent i-D interview with journalist Suzy Exposito, he admitted his decision not to tour the States next year was tied to concern for his Latino fans.
“Man, honestly, yes,” he said.
With the Super Bowl still months away, it looks like the political sideshow has already begun, and Bad Bunny’s name isn’t leaving the headlines anytime soon.
MORE IN Culture
