The Super Bowl halftime show is a highly anticipated event that many people look forward to. Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or a commercial-watcher, the halftime show is designed to entertain everyone.
Over the years, the show has grown in extravagance. Going from the University of Arizona marching band in 1967 to rapper, singer, songwriter, and record producer Kendrick Lamar in 2025, the show has undergone many changes. The major turning point was Michael Jackson’s appearance in 1993, which broke viewing records. Since then, the show has transformed into a must-see production due to its ability to attract many different audiences.
So, how is the show put on? Depending on the complexity of the show, the total on-field crew usually consists of around 500 members. Since the process of building and tearing down the stage needs to be quick, it is a highly coordinated team effort. The whole crew contains anywhere from 2,000 to 3,000 members. These members include stage, audio, production, management, and dancers. The show itself, however, is extremely costly. The amount of money it takes to put on a Super Bowl halftime show is typically between $10 and $20 million. These costs cover things like staging, visuals, and staff. However, the headliner does not get directly paid. Instead, their appearance can expose them to many ages and crowds, boosting their popularity and audience. The halftime show selection process includes the NFL, its production partner Roc Nation, and the host city. However, Roc Nation has the final say. The selection focuses on artists who have current relevance, global appeal, and a captivating stage presence. The Super Bowl LX’s headliner has recently been announced, and it has already stirred up some drama. In 2026, the show will be performed by Bad Bunny, a Puerto Rican rapper and singer.
Bad Bunny, 31, easily checks relevant off the list with 80 million monthly listeners on Spotify alone. He has recently hosted SNL and made a cameo in “Happy Gilmore 2”, giving him even more traction. This being said, him being selected for the Super Bowl halftime show makes sense. However, not everyone agrees. The Super Bowl is seen as an American tradition, and some people think that choosing an artist who sings songs in Spanish is un-American.
On the other hand, many people think that Bad Bunny is a great choice for the Super Bowl because of his high-energy, catchy music. Supporters also think that by choosing a foreign artist, it can bring more unity among the country, allowing more Americans to appreciate Spanish-speaking culture. During one of his SNL appearances, he said, “It shows our footprint, and our contribution to this country, that no one will ever be able to take away or erase.” His emphasis on Latin culture contributing to America shows his excitement for entertaining the football fans while also representing his country. However, with deportation being a major topic, he fears that many of his fans could be affected, adding to the controversy.
Despite many of the disagreements regarding his upcoming performance, the NFL is not considering replacing him. All things considered, how do you feel about Bad Bunny taking the Super Bowl stage this February? Whether you’re for or against it, his upcoming performance will be in front of millions and is guaranteed to be entertaining.
Sources:
https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/music/articles/bad-bunny-super-bowl-60-032554335.html
