The backlash against Bad Bunny’s selection for the Super Bowl Halftime Show has been vocal, with thousands of fans signing online petitions for his removal. The belief among the fans is that the Super Bowl should feature artists who align with more traditional American music and values.
For many of these fans, the halftime show is meant to be a moment of national unity and a family-oriented spectacle. They argue that the Puerto Rican artist represents a modern, global direction that moves away from the event’s roots. Concerns have been raised specifically about his past comments regarding immigration issues and his onstage style, which some see as inappropriate for an event that draws tens of millions of viewers from all age groups.
This organized opposition has resulted in multiple petitions circulating online, with some calling for his removal without naming a replacement, and others specifically naming a different artist. The total number of signatures shows a significant portion of the audience is unhappy with the NFL’s choice, suggesting the controversy is more than just a temporary trend on social media. This demand for a change reflects a broader cultural clash between traditional Americana and the NFL’s strategy of embracing global pop culture to expand its worldwide audience.
Fans Want George Strait To Perform
The protesting fans have named country music legend George Strait, affectionately known as the “King of Country Music,” as Bunny’s replacement. This is a direct call for a return to what fans perceive as traditional American values and music. The petitions specifically argue that Strait embodies the qualities of timeless American music that the Super Bowl stage deserves.
With a career spanning over five decades and more than sixty number-one hit songs, George Strait represents a non-controversial, multi-generational appeal. His supporters believe his music is the perfect soundtrack for a national event, offering a sense of nostalgia and shared heritage that they feel Bad Bunny cannot provide. Strait’s long-standing status as an icon, particularly among the NFL’s older, heartland fanbase, makes him the ideal alternative in their eyes.
The choice of George Strait is a clear statement about the type of performance fans want to see. They want one that focuses on American roots music, rather than a show leaning toward international pop and what they consider political messaging. While the NFL has a history of rarely reversing its halftime decisions, the movement for Strait demonstrates the deep passion of the country music audience and their desire to see one of their own take the spotlight.
Bad Bunny Is Ready To Tear The House Down
Despite the growing online petitions and the loud calls for his replacement, Bad Bunny remains the confirmed headliner and is fully prepared to deliver a historic performance. The Puerto Rican artist’s selection is a major milestone, as he is set to become the first Latin trap artist to lead the massive Super Bowl Halftime Show.
Bad Bunny has not remained silent on the controversy, instead choosing to address the criticism with a mix of humor and cultural pride. During his recent appearance on Saturday Night Live, he addressed concerns about the language barrier by joking that if people didn’t understand his Spanish, they had four months to learn before the Super Bowl. This response shows he is fully embracing his identity and the significance of his platform.
For his supporters, Bunny’s performance is a triumphant moment for the Latino community and a powerful representation of his culture in American entertainment. Bunny, also known as Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, appears unbothered by the demands. He is focused instead on preparing a high-energy show that will break new ground and celebrate his culture.
Published: Oct 14, 2025 12:33 pm