Bad Bunny has officially been announced as the headliner for the 2026 Super Bowl Halftime Show, and the Puerto Rican superstar appears to have the backing of one of the music industry’s most influential figures, Jay-Z.
On Sunday, September 28, the NFL, Roc Nation, and Apple Music confirmed that the rapper and singer will perform at Super Bowl LX on February 8, 2026. The game will take place at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
The announcement was met with swift praise across the entertainment world. Stars including Jennifer Lopez and Bruno Mars applauded the decision, and now Jay-Z, the founder and chairman of Roc Nation, has publicly voiced his support.
“What Benito has done and continues to do for Puerto Rico is truly inspiring. We are honored to have him on the world’s biggest stage,” Jay-Z said.
Since 2019, Roc Nation has partnered with the NFL to help select and produce halftime performers. With that in mind, many believe Jay-Z’s influence played a part in the decision to place the 30-year-old artist, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, at the center of one of the most-watched events in the world.
Bad Bunny’s selection is also notable given his outspoken criticism of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The performer once skipped mainland U.S. stops on his tour, citing concerns that “ICE could be outside my concert” and put his fans at risk of deportation. He has also condemned ICE raids in Puerto Rico, where he was born and raised.
Despite the controversy, the NFL and Roc Nation’s decision signals recognition of Bad Bunny’s global reach and cultural impact. Known for performing primarily in Spanish, he has become one of the most-streamed artists worldwide, bringing Latin music to mainstream audiences and influencing younger generations with both his artistry and activism.
The halftime show remains one of the most coveted platforms in music, with previous headliners including Beyoncé, Shakira, Rihanna, and Dr. Dre. Bad Bunny’s placement on the stage continues the NFL’s push to spotlight international and diverse performers who can resonate with global audiences.
For Jay-Z, the decision reflects more than just music. By elevating an artist who has been outspoken about social issues, Roc Nation and the NFL appear to be leaning into broader cultural conversations while also celebrating one of the most successful artists of the decade.
With Bad Bunny’s set now confirmed, anticipation is already building for what promises to be a historic halftime performance at Super Bowl LX.