New video reveals true actions of Bad Bunny during God Bless performance
The National Football League halftime show is one of the most-watched events every February, captivating an audience of over 100 million viewers. The NFL’s choice of Bad Bunny as the headliner for the 2026 Super Bowl halftime show at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California stirred up a storm of controversy. The controversy escalated when a detailed video emerged from a Yankees playoff game, shedding light on Bad Bunny’s actions during the seventh-inning stretch.
Initial reports relied on unclear images and incomplete clips, fueling debates about Bad Bunny’s conduct during the patriotic song “God Bless America.” However, the recent video footage taken from the stands provided a clear view of the artist seated behind home plate at Yankee Stadium during Game 3 of the American League Division Series against the Toronto Blue Jays. While the tradition at Yankee Stadium requires everyone to stand with their hands over their hearts during the national anthem, Bad Bunny chose to remain seated.
The NFL’s announcement of Bad Bunny as the Super Bowl halftime show headliner on September 28 added fuel to the fire. The 31-year-old artist, known offstage as Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, boasts three Grammy Awards and holds the title of Spotify’s most-streamed album artist for his 2022 album “Un Verano Sin Ti.” Having publicly supported Kamala Harris during the 2024 election and expressing concerns about Trump-era immigration policies, Bad Bunny’s political stance has been evident.
Critics, including former President Donald Trump, have denounced the NFL’s choice of Bad Bunny for the halftime show. Trump labeled the decision “absolutely ridiculous,” expressing disbelief at not having heard of the globally renowned artist. Conservative figures echoed Trump’s sentiments, criticizing Bad Bunny’s political activism and highlighting his decision to remain seated during the national anthem as disrespectful. The revelation of the clear video footage intensified the backlash against Bad Bunny, prompting calls for NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell to reconsider the halftime show selection.
Conservative commentators, such as Tomi Lahren, Jack Posobiec, and Benny Johnson, criticized Bad Bunny’s perceived anti-American sentiments and political activism, challenging his eligibility to perform at a major American sporting event like the Super Bowl. Former NASCAR driver Danica Patrick joined the chorus of disapproval, arguing that non-English songs should not be allowed at a nationally televised event like the Super Bowl. The unfolding controversy has placed the NFL in a challenging position, raising questions about the intersection of politics, patriotism, and entertainment within the realm of sports.