Bad Bunny reached a brand new benchmark on Sunday evening when his Super Bowl halftime present drew the biggest viewers within the occasion’s historical past. Nielsen figures put the viewership at 135.4 million, edging previous the document set final 12 months by Kendrick Lamar. Michael Jackson’s 1993 efficiency, lengthy cited as a high-water mark, drew 133.4 million viewers. The numbers mirrored the artist’s broad enchantment throughout audiences.

The set featured a number of of Bad Bunny’s best-known songs, together with “Nueva Yol,” “Yo Perreo Sola,” and “Tití Me Preguntó.” The manufacturing leaned closely on Puerto Rican influences, each in sound and staging. Guest appearances have been woven all through the efficiency slightly than handled as headline moments. Lady Gaga joined him for “Die With a Smile,” whereas Ricky Martin appeared for “Lo Que Pasó a Hawaii.”

Other acquainted faces, together with Cardi B, Alix Earle, Pedro Pascal, and Jessica Alba, appeared in the course of the broadcast. The present emphasised motion and scale, favoring vitality over narrative. Reaction on-line was quick, with clips circulating broadly throughout platforms. The viewers response translated into document viewership.

A Halftime Show That Sparked Debate

Criticism adopted alongside reward. President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social, calling the efficiency an “affront to the greatness of America.” He described the present as unclear and inappropriate for youthful viewers. Around the identical time, Turning Point USA promoted another “All-American” halftime occasion that includes Kid Rock, Brantley Gilbert, Lee Brice, and Gabby Barrett.

After the published, Chris Brown added his personal commentary on-line, suggesting the NFL ought to contemplate him for a future halftime present. His publish implied he may provide a unique form of efficiency. The remark circulated briefly however drew no response from the league. The NFL has not introduced plans for subsequent 12 months’s present.

The response to Bad Bunny’s halftime look mirrored how carefully the occasion now intersects with broader cultural conversations. Record viewership steered sustained curiosity, whilst opinions diverse. Halftime exhibits have turn into touchstones that reach nicely past soccer. This 12 months’s efficiency underscored that position.