Influencer Alix Earle Faces Backlash Over Super Bowl Halftime Show Appearance
Social media star Alix Earle has publicly responded to criticism following her cameo appearance during Bad Bunny's Super Bowl halftime performance. The 25-year-old influencer found herself at the centre of online debate after a TikTok user claimed her inclusion in the culturally diverse show was "undeserved."
Halftime Show Controversy Erupts on Social Media
Earle appeared during Bad Bunny's performance of "La Casita" at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California, rubbing shoulders with celebrities including Cardi B, Pedro Pascal, Young Miko, Karol G, and Jessica Alba. The Monmouth County, New Jersey native shared her excitement about the experience across social media platforms.
However, one TikTok commenter directly challenged Earle's participation, writing: "You've never once used your platform and voice for the messages Bad Bunny sends. This is unbelievable and undeserved." The critic specifically questioned whether Earle deserved to be part of a performance promoting cultural diversity.
Earle responded with enthusiasm, stating: "I have hearts and being invited to do this was such an incredible experience and so special." She later added on Instagram that Bad Bunny's "performance was pure love and joy and to experience it in real life was beyond unreal."
Political Past Comes Under Scrutiny
While Earle celebrated the halftime show's message of unity, her political background became a focal point of discussion on Reddit's r/Fauxmoi subreddit. Users highlighted her past connections to former President Donald Trump, including a December 2023 photograph with his daughter Ivanka Trump.
Earle had previously addressed her political views in a 2022 TikTok video, explaining: "My family is Republican - my whole town, everyone, is Republican - my whole high school. I literally didn't know anything else ... I've gone along with my parents' beliefs."
The influencer acknowledged displaying Trump support in the past but clarified her current perspective: "At the time, I was like, yeah, go Trump. But what did I really know? Nothing, obviously. I think that Trump is an idiot."
Online Reactions and Accusations of Opportunism
Social media users expressed mixed reactions to Earle's halftime show appearance and her political evolution. Some commenters questioned her authenticity, with one stating: "I hope she's actually changed her views but she probably is an opportunist and knows it's bad for business to be pro-Trump."
Another user referenced Earle's recent Netflix reality show deal, noting: "Netflix gave her and her family (including her vocally MAGA stepmother) a reality show. I don't plan on watching. The most I will interact with that show is to downvote it when Netflix suggests it to me."
Critics suggested that some influencers attended the Super Bowl primarily for content creation rather than genuine support for Bad Bunny's multicultural message. One commenter expressed frustration: "It's f***ing disgusting that a number of influencers went to the Super Bowl and posted Bad Bunny for content as if they didn't vote for Trump."
Super Bowl Experience and Celebrity Encounters
Despite the controversy, Earle documented her full Super Bowl experience across social media. She shared photographs from a pregame brunch in San Francisco and captured moments from the game itself, which saw the Seattle Seahawks defeat the New England Patriots 29-13.
The influencer also posted selfies from the Raising Cane's suite and with celebrities including Emma Roberts. Among her shared content was a photograph of a billboard from Bad Bunny's performance bearing the message: "The Only Thing More Powerful Than Hate is Love."
Earle reflected on the broader significance of the event, writing: "What a beautiful thing to have so many people from all over come together and celebrate life, family, love, culture and unity." Her response to critics emphasized gratitude for the opportunity while acknowledging the ongoing discussion about her political background and its relevance to her public platform.
