Global superstar Shakira has nothing but love and excitement for Bad Bunny, who is officially set to headline the 2026 Super Bowl Halftime Show. The Colombian pop icon, who shared the stage with the Puerto Rican rapper back in 2020, says this moment has been a long time coming — and she’s thrilled to see it finally happen.
Shakira’s Words of Praise: “It’s About Time!”
In a recent interview, Shakira reacted to the news of Bad Bunny being named the Apple Music Super Bowl LX Halftime Show headliner, saying, “It’s about time!”
She recalled how, during her 2020 Super Bowl performance in Miami, she and Jennifer Lopez made history by celebrating Latin culture on one of the world’s biggest stages. The set featured surprise appearances from Bad Bunny and J Balvin, both of whom helped bring reggaeton and Latin pop to a massive global audience.
Reflecting on the experience, Shakira shared:
“When we did ours, even having part of our set in Spanish felt like a bold move. Acceptance as part of the mainstream has come so far from when I started.”
She added that the growing embrace of Spanish-language music around the world has been a major cultural shift — one that artists like Bad Bunny have helped accelerate.
Latin Music’s Mainstream Evolution
For decades, Spanish-language artists struggled for recognition in English-dominated markets. Shakira, who began her international career in the late 1990s, said she faced skepticism early on when blending Latin rhythms with pop and rock sounds.
Now, she sees Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl spotlight as proof that Latin music has become a universal language.
“I hope and like to think that all the times my music was met with resistance before it was embraced helped forge the path to where we are now,” she said. “I’m so proud that Bad Bunny, who represents not only Latin culture but also global diversity, is getting to perform on the biggest stage in the world.”
Bad Bunny will perform his headlining set at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, on February 8, 2026, marking a major milestone for reggaeton and Latin trap — genres that have grown from niche club sounds to mainstream chart-toppers.
From Supporting Act to Headliner: Bad Bunny’s Journey
Bad Bunny, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, has become one of the most influential artists of his generation. Known for hits like “Tití Me Preguntó,” “Dakiti,” and “Callaíta,” the Puerto Rican star blends hip-hop, Latin trap, and reggaeton with socially conscious lyrics and fearless individuality.
He made his first Super Bowl appearance in 2020 during Shakira and Jennifer Lopez’s halftime show, where his surprise cameo electrified audiences. Six years later, he’s the main attraction — a full-circle moment that fans and fellow artists alike are celebrating.
Shakira, who famously collaborated with Bad Bunny during that performance, praised him for breaking barriers and inspiring a new wave of Spanish-speaking artists to dream bigger.
Political Controversy Over the NFL’s Decision
While fans and fellow musicians rejoiced at Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl announcement, not everyone was happy about it. The decision sparked backlash among conservative circles — including former President Donald Trump.
During an interview earlier this month, Trump expressed confusion and disapproval, saying he had “never heard” of Bad Bunny. He called the NFL’s choice “ridiculous,” claiming it was “crazy” for someone he didn’t recognize to lead such a massive event.
The comments came after conservative media outlets criticized Bad Bunny, accusing him of being “anti-American” and “critical of ICE.”
Trump told NewsMax:
“I don’t know who he is. I don’t know why they’re doing it. It’s absolutely ridiculous.”
The backlash didn’t stop there. A Change.org petition emerged soon after, demanding the NFL replace Bad Bunny with country legend George Strait, claiming the league should choose someone who “embodies the heart and soul of American music.” As of October 21, the petition had gathered nearly 60,000 signatures.
Bad Bunny Responds with Humor
Bad Bunny didn’t shy away from the controversy. During his recent appearance on Saturday Night Live on October 4, he used humor to address the situation.
“You might not know this, but I’m doing the Super Bowl halftime show — and I’m very happy,” he joked during his monologue. “I think everyone is happy about it, even Fox News.”
The remark drew laughter from the audience, showing once again that Bad Bunny prefers wit over confrontation. Known for his charisma and confidence, he’s no stranger to criticism — particularly from those who misunderstand his art or activism.
Standing Up for His Beliefs
Throughout his career, Bad Bunny has been vocal about social and political issues. He has consistently used his platform to speak out against racism, sexism, and anti-immigrant policies.
During the Trump administration, he openly criticized immigration raids and the treatment of migrants, even dedicating performances and music videos to highlight their struggles.
Recently, he revealed that he would not bring his upcoming “Debí Tirar Más Fotos World Tour” to the United States, citing ongoing crackdowns by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) as one of the reasons.
This decision, while controversial to some, earned him respect from fans who view him as a principled artist who stays true to his values.
Shakira’s Continued Legacy
While the spotlight is now on Bad Bunny, Shakira’s influence on this moment cannot be understated. Her 2020 halftime show, co-headlined with Jennifer Lopez, paved the way for Latin artists to be seen as equals on the world’s biggest entertainment stage.
That performance was celebrated for its high-energy choreography, bilingual setlist, and cultural pride, and it set a new benchmark for inclusivity in the Super Bowl’s history.
By expressing her admiration for Bad Bunny’s achievement, Shakira reminds fans that music is a bridge, not a boundary — one that continues to unite cultures through rhythm, language, and emotion.
Looking Ahead to Super Bowl LX
As anticipation builds for Super Bowl LX, excitement continues to grow across the music world. With Bad Bunny’s reputation for theatrical live shows and artistic creativity, fans are expecting an unforgettable halftime spectacle that celebrates Latin culture and global unity.
Shakira’s endorsement only amplifies that enthusiasm, as she recognizes how far Spanish-language music has come — from niche corners of the industry to the very center of American pop culture.
“It’s the perfect moment for a performance like this,” Shakira said — and millions of fans around the world seem to agree.