Bad Bunny's groundbreaking Super Bowl halftime performance has drawn a massive audience of 128.2 million viewers, according to new data released by Nielsen. The show, which took place during the NFL championship game between the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots, stands as one of the most-watched halftime spectacles in history. However, it fell short of surpassing the record set by Kendrick Lamar, whose 2025 performance attracted 133.5 million viewers.
Historic Viewership and Cultural Impact
The Super Bowl itself achieved a peak viewership of 137.8 million, setting a new record for U.S. television broadcasts. Bad Bunny made history by becoming the first solo male Latin artist to headline the halftime show and the first to perform entirely in a language other than English. His 13-minute, all-Spanish set was a vibrant celebration of Latin culture, delivering a powerful message of pan-American unity.
Political Criticism and Public Reception
Despite widespread acclaim, Bad Bunny's selection faced criticism from some quarters, including former President Donald Trump. Nevertheless, the performance was praised for its energetic delivery and cultural significance, resonating deeply with audiences across the globe.
Surge in Spanish Language Learning
In the aftermath of the show, the language-learning app Duolingo reported a significant surge in users opting to learn Spanish. Many viewers were inspired to understand the lyrics of Bad Bunny's songs, highlighting the performance's broader cultural influence beyond mere entertainment.
While the viewership numbers did not break the existing record, Bad Bunny's halftime show has cemented its place as a landmark event in both sports and music history, showcasing the growing influence of Latin artists on the global stage.
