A growing online petition is calling for the replacement of Grammy-winning rapper Bad Bunny with country music legend George Strait as the performer for the upcoming Super Bowl halftime show. The announcement of Bad Bunny’s role has sparked controversy, with some fans voicing concerns that the Puerto Rican singer may turn the event into a political spectacle, particularly given his known criticisms of former President Trump.
Launched on Change.org on October 1, the petition has quickly accumulated over 10,000 signatures. Petitioners argue that Bad Bunny’s performances, which have included critiques of U.S. immigration policies leading him to cancel all U.S. dates in his world tour, do not embody the unifying spirit they desire from the Super Bowl show. They propose 73-year-old George Strait, whose impressive catalog includes more than 60 top-charting songs, as a better fit to honor American musical traditions.
The petition describes the Super Bowl halftime show as a platform that should “unite our country, honor American culture, and remain family-friendly,” asserting that Bad Bunny’s style, marked by his drag performances and often explicit lyrics, fails to meet these criteria. By contrast, Strait is characterized as a symbol of unity and the cherished traditions of American country music, making a strong case for his potential selection as a performer.
While some fans express their disapproval of Bad Bunny’s lyrics and language—stating that performing in Spanish may not resonate with all viewers—Strait’s music is generally deemed more suitable for a family-oriented audience. His songs, while occasionally featuring mild innuendos, maintain a clean reputation ideal for the Super Bowl stage.
In addition to the rising calls for Strait’s inclusion, various other petitions have been created, some simply seeking Bad Bunny’s removal without suggesting alternative performers. Notable figures, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, have also chimed in, with Johnson nominating 83-year-old country artist Lee Greenwood, who expressed openness to performing at the Super Bowl.
Despite the backlash, Bad Bunny addressed the criticisms during his appearance on Saturday Night Live, humorously encouraging viewers to use the time leading up to the Super Bowl to learn Spanish.
As discussions continue regarding the lineup for this highly anticipated event, the push for a country music icon like George Strait reflects a broader desire among some fans for a performance that resonates with traditional American values and culture, potentially paving the way for a diverse array of musical talents.