GOP Congressmen Push Probe Over Bad Bunny's 'Explicit Lyrics at Super Bowl Halftime Show

US Republican congressmen have called for a formal Bad Bunny Super Bowl investigation following the Puerto Rican star's halftime performance at Super Bowl LX on 8 February 2026. Florida Representative Randy Fine alerted the Federal Communications Commission, labelling the show 'disgusting' and illegal. Missouri's Mark Alford claimed Republicans were already investigating the lyrics, describing them as 'very disturbing.'

The performance, watched by over 128 million viewers, marked the first Super Bowl halftime show delivered almost entirely in Spanish. It included guest appearances by Lady Gaga and Ricky Martin, with choreography celebrating Latin heritage. Critics focused on lyrics they deemed pornographic, though many were not sung in English.

GOP Lawmakers Demand FCC, Congressional Action

Ogles, in a letter to the House Energy and Commerce Committee, requested an inquiry into whether the NFL and NBC violated broadcast standards. He highlighted choreography involving 'widespread twerking' and accused the lyrics of glorifying depravities. On X, Ogles posted: 'The Apple Music Super Bowl LX Halftime Show was pure smut, brazenly aired on national television for every American family to witness.'

Fine argued that translating the Spanish lyrics to English would have triggered immediate fines, as profanities like the f-word are banned on live TV. He called for penalties and licence reviews against the involved parties. Alford appeared on conservative media, noting disturbing content uncovered in translations.

President Donald Trump also criticised the show on Truth Social, calling it 'absolutely terrible' and an affront to America.

He complained that few understood the Spanish lyrics and found the dancing inappropriate for children. The backlash echoes conservative outrage over previous halftime shows, though this one drew particular ire for its cultural elements. Bad Bunny, born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, has faced similar complaints about his reggaeton style before.

Performance Highlights and Public Response

Bad Bunny's 13-minute set at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California, featured hits from his Grammy-winning album and tributes to Puerto Rican culture, including sugar cane fields imagery. He ended by spiking a football marked 'Together We Are America' after listing Latin American nations.

Viewership peaked at 128.2 million during the halftime, ranking it fourth-highest ever. While conservatives decried it as divisive, supporters praised its representation of Latino heritage. Democrats countered the criticism, with some accusing Republicans of cultural bias.

The NFL and NBC have not yet responded to the calls for investigation. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr was tagged in Fine's complaint, but no action has been announced. Online, the controversy sparked debates, with some users mocking the lawmakers' focus amid other national issues. Bad Bunny has remained silent on the backlash so far.

Parallels with Historic Super Bowl Controversies

This is not the first halftime show to prompt regulatory scrutiny. In 2004, Janet Jackson's wardrobe malfunction led to an FCC fine of $550,000 (approximately £416,000) against CBS. That incident heightened broadcast standards for live events.

Other shows, like M.I.A.'s 2012 gesture, drew fines, though smaller. Republicans have often led such complaints, viewing performances as cultural flashpoints. Experts note language barriers amplified this row, as lyrics went untranslated on air.

As of 11 February 2026, the Energy and Commerce Committee has not confirmed any Bad Bunny Super Bowl investigation. The NFL faces potential FCC complaints, but outcomes remain uncertain. Supporters argue the show promoted unity, while critics insist on accountability for broadcast decency.