Ken Casey Defends Bad Bunny’s 2026 Super Bowl Halftime Role Amid Trump Criticism

The announcement of Bad Bunny as the Apple Music Super Bowl LX halftime show performer sparked heated debate, with former President Donald Trump calling the selection "absolutely ridiculous."

Ken Casey, lead singer of Dropkick Murphys, defended the Puerto Rican superstar in an interview with Rolling Stone, stating:

“I had never really listened to Bad Bunny’s music, but after his performance in 'Happy Gilmore 2', I will go to the mat for that guy. God bless his heart. He is a true, true American.”

Casey highlighted the broader context, adding:

“There’s way bigger problems in the world than who is at the halftime show at the Super Bowl.”

Bad Bunny’s Cultural Impact

Bad Bunny himself addressed the controversy during his 'Saturday Night Live' monologue, saying:

“I’m very excited to be doing the Super Bowl, and I know that people all around the world who love my music are also happy. Especially all of the Latinos and Latinas in the United States who have worked to open doors. It’s more than a win for myself, it’s a win for all of us.”

Support for Bad Bunny’s performance has also come from Jennifer Lopez, Shakira, and Shaboozey, with artists emphasizing his artistic merit and cultural significance.

Security Measures for Super Bowl 2026

Heightened security measures have been announced for the event. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed:

“We’ll be all over that place. We are going to enforce the law… confirming the presence of ICE agents at the game.”

Casey warned against complacency, urging the public to stay engaged:

“Maybe if you keep your mouth shut and you just go along and get along, it might not affect you yet, but it’s going to affect you eventually.”

He further criticised the current administration for trying to control narratives, insisting that cultural representation and entertainment should not be politicized.

The 2026 Super Bowl halftime show promises to be a momentous event, both for its musical spectacle and its reflection of Latino influence and broader cultural conversation in the United States.