Controversy lingers about having Puerto Rican rapper Bad Bunny headline the 2026 Super Bowl halftime show. Some want him replaced by George Strait. According to Digital Music News, a Change.org a petition is circulating to have the country music legend take the slot. As of Tuesday morning, it had more than 100,000 signatures.
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Why George Strait Rather Than Bad Bunny?
The petition states the following in part. "George Strait, known as the 'King of Country,' embodies the heart and soul of American music. With over 60 No. 1 hits and more than 40 years in the music industry, George Strait is not only a legend in the country music genre but a staple in American musical history. His ability to transcend generations with his timeless songs resonates with a diverse demographic, welcoming both long-time fans and newcomers.'
It went on. "The 2026 Super Bowl offers a unique opportunity to pay tribute to American music's rich heritage by featuring George Strait in its halftime show. His performances are known for their authenticity and raw emotion, qualities that are crucial as we aim to unite fans from coast to coast."
The petition added this. "The Super Bowl halftime show should unite our country, honor American culture, and remain family-friendly, not be turned into a political stunt. Bad Bunny represents none of these values; his drag performances and style are the opposite of what families expect on football's biggest stage. Again, George Strait embodies unity, tradition, and the timeless American music that truly deserves the 2026 Super Bowl spotlight."
Some Famous Names Have Weighed in on the Halftime Show Pick
Per the outlet, President Donald Trump said that he is unfamiliar with Bad Bunny. Turning Point USA, which was started by the late conservative activist Charlie Kirk, plans to hold its own competing halftime presentation.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell Still Backs the Choice of Bad Bunny
Per the outlet, Goodell said this. "[Bad Bunny is] one of the leading and most popular entertainers in the world. That's what we try to achieve. It's an important stage for us. It's an important element to the entertainment value, and it's carefully thought through. I'm not sure we've ever selected an artist where we didn't have some blowback and criticism. It's pretty hard to do."
He added the following. "I am not saying that there won't be additional talent that might be involved, but that's the way it works. We're confident it's going to be a good show; he understands the platform that he is on, and I think it's going to be exciting and [a] uniting moment."
