A political firestorm is building following Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl LX halftime performance, with a Florida congressman demanding federal action and new reports suggesting the artist could face a multimillion-dollar fine.
Congressman Calls for FCC Review
U.S. Representative Randy Fine of Florida is urging the Federal Communications Commission to take what he described as “dramatic action” after Bad Bunny’s halftime show aired live on NBC and its affiliates nationwide.
Fine said on social media that he has contacted the FCC chairman, accusing the Grammy-winning artist of broadcasting inappropriate content during one of the most-watched television events of the year.
In his posts, Fine called parts of the performance “illegal” and argued that regulators should review the broadcast and consider potential fines against the NFL, NBC, and Bad Bunny himself.
As of now, the FCC has not announced any formal enforcement action.
A Historic Halftime Performance
Bad Bunny, born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, headlined the Apple Music Super Bowl LX Halftime Show on February 8. The performance marked a milestone, as he became the first Latino solo artist to lead the halftime stage.
The 13-minute show was performed entirely in Spanish and served as a celebration of Puerto Rican culture. It featured references to his album DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS, elaborate choreography, a live on-stage wedding moment, and an appearance by fellow Puerto Rican artist Ricky Martin.
One of the most discussed segments included lyrics from “LO QUE LE PASÓ A HAWAii,” a song that draws parallels between Hawaii and Puerto Rico’s histories. A key line translates to, “What happened to Hawaii can also happen here,” which many interpret as commentary on colonialism and cultural identity.
Supporters praised the performance as a powerful cultural statement. Critics, however, focused on different aspects.
Allegations of Explicit Content
Representative Fine’s criticism centres on what he describes as explicit language and gestures during the broadcast. He shared translated lyrics from Bad Bunny’s broader catalogue, arguing that similar language in English would have resulted in immediate penalties.
However, several outlets that reviewed the live broadcast reported that some of the lyrics circulating online were not actually performed during the halftime show. In other instances, words were shortened, altered, or muted during the live transmission.
This distinction has become a key point in the debate, raising questions about whether the broadcast itself violated federal standards or whether criticism is based on the artist’s existing body of work.
Reports of a Potential $10 Million Fine
Adding to the controversy, reports have circulated suggesting Bad Bunny could face fines of up to $10 million for alleged on-air vulgarity and explicit gestures.
“It doesn’t matter if you hide your profanity behind another language,” FCC Commissioner Joseph Barron reportedly said. “It’s still against the law.”
According to these reports, Apple Music and the NFL could also face financial penalties if regulators determine that broadcast standards were violated. It remains unclear whether a formal investigation has begun or whether the reported figure represents a maximum possible penalty.
Political Reaction Expands
The backlash has extended beyond Representative Fine. Donald Trump Jr. and other conservative commentators criticised the performance online, questioning media coverage that described it as family-friendly.
At the same time, supporters argue that Super Bowl halftime shows have long included provocative choreography and artistic expression that frequently spark debate. They suggest the current controversy may reflect broader political and cultural disagreements.
The NFL and NBC have not issued public statements in response to calls for federal action as of this writing.
With all the evil shit going on in the world, you are putting all your time into this? 🤦♂️
— BIG WORM (@William_C1981) February 10, 2026
I watch TPUSA. I am glad you had to listen to it and not me. I must have been disgusted.
— Harold R Lindsey (@harold_lin57176) February 10, 2026
We did not watch this. So all I have seen are these lyrics and one clip of humans grinding on the back of a pickup truck. The entire thing is disgusting. And all of our kids were exposed to this as if it is something to be emulated and celebrated. What is wrong with people?!!…
— Margaret Hendrickson (@prelagsmom) February 9, 2026
How many millions of children watched the half-time show? The NFL should be held responsible.
— SueDinNY (@SueDinNY) February 11, 2026
The song was altered for the superbowl, there was no cussing. Go whine somewhere else 🫵🏽🤡
— Ana Braga🇺🇸🇧🇷 (@TheAnaBraga) February 11, 2026
What Happens Next
The FCC has the authority to review complaints related to live broadcasts and determine whether federal decency standards were violated. Whether this situation results in formal penalties or remains a political dispute is still uncertain.
What began as a historic cultural moment on one of television’s biggest stages has now evolved into a national debate about language, regulation, and artistic expression.
With millions watching and political figures weighing in, the story may be far from over.
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