Bad Bunny's Super Bowl Halftime Performance: No Financial Compensation Involved
The Puerto Rican rapper and singer Bad Bunny, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, is set to take the stage on February 8, 2026, for the Super Bowl halftime show. This performance marks one of the most significant moments in his career, yet he will not receive any payment for his appearance. The 31-year-old artist, known for hits like "Tití Me Preguntó," was selected as this year's headliner, a decision that has sparked criticism from some MAGA supporters and loyal followers of Donald Trump. These critics have labeled him a "massive Trump hater" and an "anti-ICE activist," while also criticizing his lack of songs in English.
The NFL's Policy on Halftime Performers
Contrary to popular belief, the NFL does not pay halftime performers beyond a union-mandated minimum of a few hundred dollars. According to Forbes, musicians primarily rely on the massive exposure provided by the Super Bowl, which reaches an average audience of over 133 million viewers. This tradition has been longstanding, with performers benefiting from increased streams, sales, and social media growth rather than direct financial compensation.
Exposure Benefits from Past Performances
Recent examples highlight the substantial benefits that halftime performers gain from their Super Bowl appearances. Following Kendrick Lamar's performance at Super Bowl 2025, his song "Not Like Us" experienced a 430 percent surge in streams. Similarly, Rihanna's 2023 halftime show led to a 640 percent increase in Spotify streams and an estimated $88.3 million in media impact value within just 12 hours, as reported by Launchmetrics. Her cosmetics brand, Fenty Beauty, also saw a significant boost in sales.
Other artists have reaped similar rewards:
- Lady Gaga's album and song sales increased by 1000 percent after her 2017 performance.
- Jennifer Lopez gained 2.3 million new Instagram followers following her 2020 appearance with Shakira.
Production Costs and Financial Contributions
The production of the halftime show involves substantial expenses, typically around $10 million, covered by the NFL and Apple Music. These costs include staff, elaborate sets, and audio equipment. In some cases, performers have contributed their own funds; for instance, The Weeknd spent $7 million of his own money in 2021, and Dr. Dre did the same the previous year.
Super Bowl LX Details
This year's Super Bowl LX will be held in Santa Clara, California, featuring a matchup between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks. The two teams previously faced off in 2015, with the Patriots winning 28-24. Bad Bunny's performance is expected to draw millions of viewers, continuing the tradition of high-profile halftime shows that prioritize exposure over payment.
