Super Bowl LX could face a backlash from fans after the NFL’s decision to announce Bad Bunny as the headline halftime act in February 2026 following failed negotiations with Taylor Swift.
Reports indicated the 14-time Grammy winner entered discussions with the league but withdrew when her contractual demands were not met as Rob Shuter, citing league insiders, said Swift requested terms that “reflected her value.”
According to those familiar with the talks, the NFL declined to adjust its standard approach, ending the negotiations.
The failure to land the 35-year-old Grammy-winning artist has sparked calls for a boycott of the league’s showcase event in a disappointing blow to Swifties just days before the launch of The Life of a Showgirl, Taylor‘s latest album.
The NFL revealed its performer during halftime of the Packers-Cowboys game, confirming Bad Bunny will take center stage at Levi’s Stadium on February 8, but the announcement was met with immediate discontent.
The reaction online was swift. Numerous supporters of Swift criticized the choice, with some pledging to boycott the event entirely.
One comment via X.com, formerly Twitter, read, “They wanted Taylor Swift to do the Super Bowl, but she declined so they went with Bad Bunny??? That’s such a joke and a downgrade.”
Another said, “I have zero interest in seeing Bad Bunny performing at the Super Bowl; I would have rather had Taylor Swift.”
Whilst a third wrote, “Boycott the Super Bowl.
So, while the NFL may have secured a performer with undeniable global influence, the disappointment from Swift‘s absence continues to dominate discussion, and the looming question is whether the threatened boycott will materialize.
Regardless, Bad Bunny is known for his showmanship and his music is exceptionally popular so there is little doubt he will deliver a fantastic night in California, regardless of whatever Swifties choose to do.
Who is Bad Bunny?
Bad Bunny, born Benito Antonio MartÃnez Ocasio, has become one of the most recognizable artists in the world since emerging in 2016, where he was initially dominant in the Latin trap and reggaeton scenes.
Since then, his career has expanded into global pop culture and he has collaborated with artists such as J Balvin, Daddy Yankee, Dua Lipa, Drake, and Cardi B – some of the industry’s biggest names.
The 31-year-old recently staged a record-breaking residency in Puerto Rico, drawing more than 500,000 attendees, and will enter the Latin Grammy Awards season as the leading nominee.
His reach extends far beyond music, with appearances in film, professional wrestling, and fashion and that’s part of why Oliver Schusser, Apple Music and Beats vice president, praised the selection.
“His music has not only broken records,” Schusser said. “But has elevated Latin music to the center of pop culture.
“And we are thrilled to once again partner with the NFL and Roc Nation to deliver this historic performance to millions of fans worldwide.”
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