NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has clarified that the league is standing by its decision to feature Bad Bunny as the Super Bowl halftime performer. The confirmation came Wednesday during the NFL’s annual fall owners meeting, when Goodell told reporters he’s “not reconsidering” the controversial choice. This stance immediately reignited backlash across conservative circles.
As one viral post said,“The NFL is making a huge mistake.”
The NFL is making a huge mistake
— Gunther Eagleman™ (@GuntherEagleman) October 23, 2025
Roger Goodell Stands Firm Amid NFL Political and Fan Backlash
Bad Bunny Super Bowl Halftime Show Prop Bets Explode After Controversial Selection
Bad Bunny Super Bowl Halftime Show Prop Bets Explode After Controversial Selection (Screenshot Via-ibb.co.com)
Roger Goodell defended the league’s decision, stating that every Super Bowl act brings some criticism, but the focus remains on global appeal. “He’s one of the leading and most popular entertainers in the world,” Goodell said, adding that the show will celebrate culture and diversity. The 31-year-old artist, born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, has consistently used his platform to highlight Puerto Rican identity and social issues, including opposition to Donald Trump’s policies.
The commissioneremphasized that the decision was “carefully thought through,” noting that the Super Bowl is a global event with “hundreds of millions” of viewers. Goodell reiterated confidence in Bad Bunny’s performance, suggesting additional artists may join him at Levi’s Stadium in February 2026.
Trump publicly dismissed the choice in an interview with Newsmax, saying, “I don’t know who he is. I don’t know why they’re doing it. It’s, like, crazy.” His criticism added political fuel to an already polarized reaction, framing the halftime show as a cultural flashpoint rather than just entertainment.
The announcement has unleashed a wave of frustration among conservative NFL fans, who accuse the league of alienating its core audience. Many argue that the halftime show no longer represents traditional American values. Onefan wrote,“Sorry, the huge mistake will be watching the game. The NFL needs to understand who their audience is.”
Another viralpost echoed growing resentment toward the league’s direction:“The only way the NFL learns is to boycott both the Super Bowl and their games. They learn when they lose money.” Others urged fans to boycott sponsors,calling the NFL “as corrupt as the government.”
The internet backlash is not expected to drop. As hashtags like Boycott SuperBowl are trending, Goodell’s tweets about the importance of inclusiveness are being put to a practical test of viewers’ loyalty. It is yet to be determined whether the scandal translates to lost ratings or is another flash-in-the-pan debate.