NFL commissioner defends Bad Bunny as Super Bowl 60 halftime performer
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell has defended the selection of Bad Bunny as the Super Bowl 60 halftime performer, insisting the Puerto Rican star will bring Americans together rather than divide them, reports BritPanorama.
Donald Trump has publicly criticized the decision, labeling it “terrible” and claiming it would “sow hatred.” In response, Goodell emphasized Bad Bunny’s global appeal, stating, “Bad Bunny is one of the greatest artists in the world and that’s one of the reasons we chose him.”
Goodell remarked that Bad Bunny understands the significance of the platform, which he described as one intended to unite people through creativity and talent. The reggaeton artist is set to make history as the first solo male Latin performer to take the prestigious halftime slot, and he is expected to deliver the entire performance in Spanish.
As anticipation builds for Sunday’s championship game in Santa Clara, California, which is projected to draw over 120 million viewers, Bad Bunny’s appearance follows his recent accolade at the Grammy Awards, where he became the first Latin artist to win album of the year. During that ceremony, he expressed solidarity with immigrants, stating “ICE out” while critiquing Trump’s immigration policies, and received a standing ovation from the audience.
Notably, Bad Bunny has refrained from including the United States in his current world tour due to concerns about potential Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids at his concerts. Addressing security during Super Bowl weekend, Goodell confirmed that extensive measures are in place, involving cooperation among federal, state, and local authorities.
As Super Bowl week unfolds in San Jose, the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks have begun engaging with fans ahead of the title decider on Sunday. The context surrounding the event is heightened by recent public outrage regarding ICE operations, particularly following two fatal shootings involving federal agents in Minneapolis, which have led to widespread protests.
In such a charged atmosphere, the intersection of celebrity, politics, and sport continues to reflect the complexities of modern American society, illustrating how the sporting event will serve not just as entertainment, but as a significant moment within ongoing national dialogues.
