Retired NFL quarterback Brett Favre has publicly condemned the league's decision to have global music sensation Bad Bunny headline the highly anticipated Super Bowl LX halftime show, sparking a significant cultural and political debate.
Favre's Patriotic Plea for the Halftime Show
During a recent episode of his 4th & Favre podcast, the 56-year-old Hall of Famer expressed his strong disapproval. Favre suggested that the NFL should have selected a performer who embodies a more traditional, patriotic spirit for the prestigious slot.
"I'd pick someone who — maybe Jason Aldean … someone who loves this country and that everyone could relate to," Favre stated, imagining himself in the role of NFL commissioner. He praised Aldean as "as big a patriot and has a great voice."
Favre, a known supporter of Donald Trump, also mentioned country music veteran George Strait as a preferable choice. He nostalgically recalled Whitney Houston's iconic rendition of the national anthem at Super Bowl XXV in January 1991, describing it as a profoundly moving moment that should be the standard for such performances.
A Wave of Conservative Backlash
Favre is not alone in his criticism. His comments align with a growing chorus of conservative figures who have voiced their opposition to the selection of the 31-year-old Puerto Rican artist, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio.
House Speaker Mike Johnson labelled the choice a "terrible decision," questioning Bad Bunny's suitability as a role model for children. Far-right congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene expressed outrage over the likelihood of songs being performed in Spanish. Former President Donald Trump himself called the decision "absolutely ridiculous" and claimed he had never heard of the artist, despite Bad Bunny being one of the most-streamed musicians in the world.
The underlying criticism from these figures appears to stem from Bad Bunny's public opposition to Trump and his immigration policies, with some arguing he does not represent all of America.
The NFL Stands Firm and Bad Bunny Responds
Despite the political firestorm and even reported threats of attendance from ICE officials, the NFL has shown no indication of reversing its decision. The performance in February is still set to proceed, with fans viewing it as a major milestone for Latin American artists on the global stage.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell addressed the criticism at a press conference, acknowledging that backlash is common with such a high-profile selection. "We're confident it's going to be a great show," Goodell asserted. "He understands the platform that he's on, and I think it's going to be exciting and a united moment."
For his part, Bad Bunny appears entirely unbothered. While hosting the season 51 premiere of Saturday Night Live, he delivered a witty retort to his detractors. Joking directly to non-Spanish speakers in his monologue, he said, "If you didn't understand what I just said, you have four months to learn."
