“Bad Bunny was a woman”: Emmanuel Acho blasts NFL for ‘ridiculous’ choice of Bad Bunny as 2026 Super Bowl halftime star

The NFL’s decision to name Bad Bunny as the headliner for the 2026 Super Bowl halftime show at Levi’s Stadium has already set the stage for controversy. Former NFL linebacker and current analyst Emmanuel Acho voiced his doubts about the league’s selection, igniting a broader conversation about the halftime show’s direction and its connection to football’s core fanbase.

Emmanuel Acho admits confusion about Bad Bunny and questions NFL strategy

On Speak, Acho candidly shared his first reaction to the announcement. “Up until three years ago, I thought Bad Bunny was a woman,” he admitted. “Up until three years ago, I thought Billie Eilish was a man. So, I’m happy for Mr. Bunny, I think. Yeah, I don’t know how I feel about this.”


While his comments raised eyebrows, Acho clarified that his skepticism wasn’t about Bad Bunny’s talent or global success but whether his music resonates with a traditional football audience. “It’s not that Bad Bunny don’t go crazy. The question is, is the football audience going to enjoy Bad Bunny in person?” he said, contrasting the choice with past iconic halftime acts like Shakira, JLo, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, and Rihanna.

The NFL’s balancing act between tradition and global influence

Acho’s co-host, LeSean McCoy, offered a different perspective, bluntly attributing the decision to business. “Money,” McCoy said. “The NFL is trying to get more viewership.”

Bad Bunny’s selection underscores how the league is doubling down on its international appeal. The Puerto Rican superstar is one of the most streamed artists in the world and a top nominee at the Latin Grammys, giving the NFL access to a massive Latin American and global fanbase. His previous cameo at the 2020 Super Bowl alongside Shakira and Jennifer Lopez further cements his credibility on the NFL stage.


Still, not everyone is celebrating the move. Critics, particularly from conservative circles, have voiced concerns about Bad Bunny’s outspoken political views. Others worry the league is drifting too far from its traditional fan culture in pursuit of international recognition.

Also Read: “Gay grooming halftime show”: Jason Whitlock claims NFL is promoting demonic worship and pushing transgender agenda

In the end, the NFL’s gamble is clear: by putting Bad Bunny center stage in 2026, the league hopes to bridge cultures and expand its global reach. Whether football’s most loyal fans embrace the choice or see it as a disconnect, remains to be seen.

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