Bad Bunny celebrates Puerto Rico in joyous Super Bowl halftime show
The Hindu
Bad Bunny's Super Bowl halftime show celebrates Puerto Rican culture, showcasing unity and joy while making history as the first Spanish-only performer.
Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny on Sunday (February 8, 2026) turned the Super Bowl into a giant street party, delivering his hits on one of the world’s biggest stages — and becoming the first-ever halftime show headliner to sing only in Spanish.
Anticipation was high for the 31-year-old’s set, amid rampant speculation about whether he would use his platform to renew his criticism of President Donald Trump’s administration in front of tens of millions of viewers.
Just a week ago at the Grammys, where he won the coveted Album of the Year prize, Bad Bunny made a searing statement about Mr. Trump’s sweeping immigration crackdown, earning cheers for saying “ICE out” from the stage.
But the wildly popular musician, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martinez Ocasio, made good on his pre-game promise to joyously share his culture — while focusing on the importance of unity over calling out specific divisions in American society, or naming names.
In a set featuring a sugar cane plantation, a traditional “piragua” cart selling treats, and even a wedding, he opened with “Titi Me Pregunto” and feminist anthem “Yo Perreo Sola,” with a cast of dancers fueling the party atmosphere.
Actors Pedro Pascal and Jessica Alba, and rapper Cardi B were among the guest stars vibing in his familiar “La Casita” backdrop, representing a home in Puerto Rico.
Ukraine accuses Hungary of detaining bank employees carrying $82 million, escalating tensions amid an oil dispute between the countries.
Indonesia will restrict social media access for children under 16, joining other nations in addressing online safety concerns.
Four men arrested in London for allegedly spying on the Jewish community to aid Iranian intelligence, police report.
Hungary's PM Orban accuses Ukraine of blackmail, halting transit shipments until oil flow agreements are restored.
Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister condemns U.S. attack on unarmed vessel, emphasizing violations of international law and escalating tensions.
The Justice Department releases previously withheld Epstein files containing uncorroborated accusations against Trump amid ongoing scrutiny and political pressure.
Intense Israeli airstrikes target Iran and Lebanon as U.S. warns of escalating conflict and heightened military involvement.
Australian troops were aboard a U.S. submarine that sank an Iranian ship; PM Albanese clarifies their role was non-combat.
Trump pressures Latin American leaders to reduce ties with China, invoking U.S. control over the Panama Canal and imposing travel bans.
Cuba reports fifth death from a shootout involving a U.S. speedboat, with charges filed against survivors linked to terrorism.
Bangladesh faces soaring LNG prices after Qatar halts supplies, prompting gas rationing and shutdowns of fertiliser plants.
Jimmy Lai's legal team announces he will not appeal his 20-year national security conviction in Hong Kong.
Rastriya Swotantra Party leads in 23 seats in Nepal's elections, with a 60% voter turnout amid significant political changes.