A growing online petition is calling for country icon George Strait to replace Bad Bunny as the headliner for the 2026 Super Bowl halftime show.
Bad Bunny, a Puerto Rican artist who performs primarily in Spanish, was officially announced in September as the headliner for Super Bowl LX, leading to a wave of backlash from many who question whether his style, language, and public stances align with expectations for one of the biggest events of the year, as previously reported by The Dallas Express.
The petition, which was posted on the website Change.org, frames the potential switch as a return to traditional American music values amid cultural tensions over the NFL’s selection.
The petition states that the Super Bowl halftime show is meant to celebrate “not just the sport but the cultural tapestry of America,” adding that it is “pivotal to remember the roots that have made American music what it is today.”
“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.”
Currently, the petition still has fewer than 25,000 total signatures, though it remains to be seen whether it will gather steam as the Super Bowl draws nearer.
Since the announcement, Bad Bunny has appeared indifferent about the backlash, even mocking those who have criticized the league for the decision.
The Puerto Rican artist recently mocked critics during an appearance on “Saturday Night Live,” telling viewers they had “four months to learn Spanish” before he makes his appearance on one of the biggest stages of the year.
While the NFL has not publicly responded to the petition, many critics have spotlighted potential concerns beyond performance style.
As previously reported by The Dallas Express, Bad Bunny’s record label, Rimas Entertainment, was co-founded by Rafael Ricardo Jiménez Dan, who previously served as Venezuela’s vice minister of legal certainty under Hugo Chávez.
Meanwhile, Turning Point USA has already announced plans for an “All-American Halftime Show” to run concurrently, offering an alternative “faith, family, and freedom–oriented” performance.