The Super Bowl halftime show is usually about fireworks, dancing, and one superstar stealing the spotlight — not a full-blown cultural civil war. But 2026 might just be different. The NFL’s decision to pick Puerto Rican megastar Bad Bunny as the next halftime headliner has fans more divided than a fourth-quarter replay review.
While some are already practicing their Spanish lyrics, others are signing petitions faster than a quarterback under pressure. A viral Change.org petition demanding the NFL replace Bad Bunny with country legend George Strait has now crossed 35,000 signatures — and counting.
The petition argues that the Super Bowl should “honor American culture” — not international pop. It reads, “The Super Bowl halftime show is one of the most watched music performances worldwide… it’s pivotal to remember the roots that have made American music what it is today.” Translation? Bring back cowboy hats, guitars, and wholesome family vibes — not Latin trap beats or edgy outfits.
Bad Bunny, of course, didn’t miss his chance to turn up the heat. During his Saturday Night Live appearance, he wrapped up his monologue with a message that had fans either laughing or fuming:
Well, looks like Duolingo just got a Super Bowl sponsorship without even trying.
Some say this is about “culture clash,” while others call it “progress.” One side wants the NFL to go back to “family-friendly Americana”; the other says America is multicultural — and that the halftime show should reflect that.
At 73, George Strait remains the cowboy king of tradition and unity. But in 2026, the Super Bowl stage might be less about “where were you raised” and more about “what playlist are you on.”
Either way, one thing’s certain — the halftime show may last 15 minutes, but this debate? It’s going into overtime.
