'They Love Him': Jay-Z Responds to Bad Bunny Super Bowl Halftime Show Backlash

Jay-Z has dismissed criticism surrounding Bad Bunny's selection as the 2026 Super Bowl Halftime Show headliner, suggesting the backlash isn't genuine.

In a brief exchange captured by TMZ while signing memorabilia in New York (as per Rolling Stone), the Roc Nation founder offered a succinct response to questions about the controversy: "They love him. Don't let them fool you."

The Puerto Rican superstar's announcement as the Super Bowl LX performer marked a historic moment, making him the first Latin artist to headline the prestigious event solo. However, the news sparked criticism from conservative commentators and right-wing figures, who targeted Roc Nation, the NFL, and Apple Music for their decision. Critics particularly focused on Bad Bunny's use of Spanish in his music and his outspoken political stances on immigration issues.

Jay-Z initially showed reluctance to engage with the topic, telling the TMZ reporter, "I don't wanna talk about nothing." He only offered his perspective when pressed specifically about why people were criticising Bad Bunny.

The criticism hasn't gone unnoticed by NFL officials either. Commissioner Roger Goodell addressed the controversy during an interview with The Atlantic, defending the organisation's choice. "He's one of the most popular entertainers in the world," Goodell stated. "That's what we try to achieve. It's an important element of the entertainment value. It's carefully thought through."

Goodell acknowledged that backlash typically accompanies halftime show announcements, regardless of the selected artist. "I would say I'm not sure we've ever selected an artist where we didn't have some blowback or criticism," he explained. "We have hundreds of millions of people watching, but I have full confidence it'll be a good show."

A petition calling for country singer George Strait to replace Bad Bunny has gained traction, accumulating approximately 80,000 signatures. However, even if every signatory boycotted the performance, their absence would likely have minimal impact on viewership numbers for one of television's most-watched annual events.

Bad Bunny himself has framed his Super Bowl opportunity as a moment of cultural significance that extends beyond personal achievement. In his statement following the announcement, he emphasised the broader meaning of his selection: "What I'm feeling goes beyond myself. It's for those who came before me and ran countless yards so I could come in and score a touchdown.… this is for my people, my culture, and our history. Ve y dile a tu abuela, que seremos el HALFTIME SHOW DEL SUPER BOWL.”