NFL DEFIES Trump—Doubles Down On Controversial Pick

Claims that Bad Bunny wiped his Instagram account following Super Bowl LX halftime show backlash remain unverified by credible sources, despite widespread social media speculation suggesting the Puerto Rican artist retreated from public view after his February 8, 2026 performance.

Story Snapshot

No credible evidence confirms Bad Bunny deleted Instagram posts after his Super Bowl LX halftime performance on February 8, 2026
Pre-show backlash came from Trump administration figures including Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem and House Speaker Mike Johnson
The NFL defended its choice, prioritizing global audience expansion despite political pressure from conservatives
Performance featured Spanish-language songs and symbolism related to Puerto Rico and immigration, themes at odds with current administration policies

Unsubstantiated Instagram Deletion Claims

Multiple searches across verified news outlets including ESPN, CBS News, and major media platforms yield no confirmation that Bad Bunny deleted his Instagram content following the Super Bowl LX halftime show. The claim appears to originate from social media speculation and unverified sources, with established news organizations making no mention of any Instagram purge. Bad Bunny’s representatives did not respond to media requests for comment before or after the performance, leaving the artist’s direct response to criticism unclear.

NFL’s Defiance of Political Pressure

The NFL announced Bad Bunny as the Super Bowl LX halftime headliner in late September 2025, immediately triggering pushback from Trump administration officials and conservative politicians. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem and adviser Corey Lewandowski criticized the selection, with House Speaker Mike Johnson suggesting the league should have chosen performers like Lee Greenwood instead. Despite concerns from some team owners unfamiliar with the artist, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell stood firm at October 2025 league meetings, calling the decision carefully thought through and aimed at creating an exciting, united moment. This defiance of political pressure highlights the league’s commitment to expanding its Latino and international audience, even when it conflicts with conservative expectations for patriotic entertainment.

Artist’s Anti-Trump Stance and Performance Themes

Bad Bunny’s selection proved controversial among conservatives due to his documented opposition to Trump administration immigration policies. The artist had previously skipped U.S. tour dates in September 2025, citing fears of ICE raids, and criticized former President Trump’s response to Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico. His February 8, 2026 halftime show, the first predominantly Spanish-language performance in Super Bowl history, featured symbolism related to Puerto Rican identity and immigration themes that directly challenged current administration policies. The performance occurred during a period of heightened immigration enforcement and what critics describe as increased profiling of Latino communities. For conservatives watching America’s biggest sporting event, the show represented yet another instance of cultural figures using high-profile platforms to advance political agendas contrary to traditional American values and immigration law enforcement.

Limited Backlash Despite Political Controversy

Post-performance coverage described the show as widely praised and historic, contradicting predictions of major controversy. The most notable backlash incident occurred on February 9, 2026, when a St. Petersburg, Florida bar aired Turning Point USA’s alternative halftime show instead of Bad Bunny’s performance, sparking outrage among patrons who expected to see the official broadcast. President Trump notably skipped attending the game, though no official statement linked his absence to the halftime performer. Fan reactions on social media platforms were predominantly positive, with viewers celebrating the historic Latino representation. The gulf between pre-show political criticism and actual audience response suggests that conservative political figures overstated the potential for widespread rejection of the performance among everyday Americans.

Bad Bunny wipes Instagram after Super Bowl LX halftime show backlash https://t.co/X6OQxdYXwO pic.twitter.com/I5L7nHQwBG

— New York Post (@nypost) February 10, 2026

NFL’s Broader Strategy and Conservative Concerns

Bad Bunny’s selection reflects the NFL’s post-2016 partnership with Roc Nation, initiated after anthem-kneeling protests led to social justice reforms including the $89 million Inspire Change initiative. This strategy prioritizes global market expansion and diverse representation over traditional patriotic themes that once dominated halftime shows. NFL Chief Marketing Officer Tim Ellis bluntly endorsed Bad Bunny as excellent, signaling the league’s willingness to ignore conservative criticism in pursuit of business goals. For conservatives frustrated with corporate America’s embrace of progressive causes, this decision represents another example of major institutions abandoning traditional values. The performance sets a precedent for non-English headliners at America’s premier sporting event, raising questions about cultural assimilation and whether the NFL should prioritize international appeal over the preferences of its core American audience that values patriotic displays during national celebrations.