Calls for the removal of National Football League (NFL) Commissioner Roger Goodell intensified following Super Bowl LX, fueled by criticism of the halftime present performance by Puerto Rican artist Awful Bunny.
The backlash, primarily originating from conservative and MAGA-aligned online communities, centers on Bad Bunny’s past criticisms of former President Donald Trump and his advocacy regarding concerns over ICE raids, as reported by Newsweek. Trump himself labeled the performance “absolutely terrible, one of the worst, EVER!” in a social media post.
The controversy extends beyond the performance itself. Critics have also focused on Bad Bunny’s decision to perform entirely in Spanish, with some accusations of racism leveled against the artist and, by extension, the NFL for selecting him. Turning Point USA, a conservative activist group, organized an alternative halftime show featuring Kid Rock, Brantley Gilbert, Lee Brice, and Gabby Barrett, claiming significant viewership numbers.
Andrew Kolvet, a spokesperson for Turning Point USA, stated on Fox News that the viewership of their alternative show “blew our minds,” signaling plans for a similar event in 2027. This move underscores a deliberate effort to counter what they perceive as a political agenda within the NFL’s entertainment choices.
The situation highlights a growing tension between the NFL’s attempts to broaden its audience and the expectations of its traditional fan base, particularly within politically conservative segments. The NFL has not yet issued a formal response to the calls for Goodell’s dismissal, maintaining silence as of late Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
