NFL Announces Historic Inclusion of Puerto Rican Sign Language in Super Bowl LVIII Halftime Show
SANTA CLARA, CA – The National Football League will make history at Super Bowl LVIII with the inclusion of Puerto Rican Sign Language (PRSL) in its halftime show performance by Bad Bunny, the league announced November 30. This marks the first time a multilingual signing program incorporating PRSL will be featured at the Super Bowl.
The initiative will be led by deaf Puerto Rican performer Celimar Rivera Cosme. All signed performances for the Super Bowl pregame lineup and halftime show are collaborations with Alexis Kashar of LOVE SIGN and Howard Rosenblum of Deaf Equality.
Prior to Bad BunnyS performance, Brandi Carlile will perform “America the Lovely” and Coco Jones will deliver “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” the Black national anthem, at Levi’s Stadium on February 8. Fred Beam will sign both anthems, while Julian Ortiz will translate ”America the Beautiful” into American Sign Language.
“We’re proud to spotlight artists who embody the very best of music and culture,” said Jon Barker,senior vice president of global event production for the NFL,in a statement. “these artists bring a distinct voice to the moment, helping set the tone for a day that will captivate fans around the world.”
The Super Bowl halftime Show is produced by Diversified Production Services, with Roc Nation and Jesse Collins as executive producers.
The announcement comes amidst controversy surrounding Bad Bunny’s performance, with complaints from former President Donald trump and his supporters regarding the artist’s music and political views.
Leading up to the Super Bowl, the Bay Area will host a series of fan events and concerts featuring artists such as Sting, The Killers, and oakland native Kehlani.
