Bad Bunny delivered a electrifying halftime performance at Super Bowl LX, where the Seattle Seahawks defeated the New England Patriots 29-13 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. During the show, featuring collaborations with Lady Gaga and Ricky Martin, the Puerto Rican superstar emerged in a cropped cream-colored jersey displaying the number ’64’ on the front and ‘Ocasio’ on the back, sparking curiosity among fans.
The Personal Tribute Behind the Jersey
The number 64 and name ‘Ocasio’ pay homage to Bad Bunny’s late uncle, a former football player who wore that jersey number. Bad Bunny, born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, shares the family surname, making the gesture a heartfelt nod to his relative.
Possible Nod to Hurricane Maria Tragedy
The choice of 64 also evokes the initial official death toll reported in Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria struck in September 2017. Puerto Rico, Bad Bunny’s birthplace, suffered catastrophic damage. The government’s early figure of 64 deaths faced widespread criticism as an undercount, later revised to 2,975 following a George Washington University study.
Former President Donald Trump, in office at the time, challenged the higher estimate, claiming without evidence that ‘3,000 people did not die’ and accusing Democrats of inflating numbers. Critics highlighted his response, including tossing paper towels to affected residents during a 2017 visit, viewed by some as insufficient aid.
Super Bowl LX Context and Controversy
This Super Bowl marked a rematch of Super Bowl XLIX from 2015, where the Patriots edged out the Seahawks. Bad Bunny’s selection as halftime performer, announced in late September, ignited debate due to his prior criticisms of U.S. immigration policies, including references to ICE preventing mainland tour dates.
Trump voiced opposition and skipped the game. After winning three Grammys, including Album of the Year, Bad Bunny stated, ‘Before I say thanks to God, I’m going to say, ICE Out.’
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell praised Bad Bunny as ‘one of the greatest artists in the world’ and noted his understanding of the platform’s unifying role.
Pre-Game Performances
Charlie Puth sang the national anthem, following Brandi Carlile on America the Beautiful and Coco Jones on Lift Every Voice and Sing. Cardi B, whose partner Stefon Diggs plays wide receiver for the Patriots, watched with interest amid the couple’s recent family milestones.
Iconic Super Bowl Halftime Moments
Janet Jackson’s Wardrobe Malfunction (2004)
Justin Timberlake accidentally exposed Janet Jackson’s breast, sparking over 500,000 FCC complaints and industry backlash.
Kendrick Lamar’s Drake Diss (2025)
Lamar teased his feud with Drake, performing altered lyrics from Not Like Us and wearing symbolic jewelry.
Rihanna’s Pregnancy Reveal (2023)
Rihanna showcased her baby bump during her comeback set, confirming her second child with A$AP Rocky.
Left Shark with Katy Perry (2015)
A dancer in a shark costume went viral for offbeat moves during California Gurls.
Eminem Takes a Knee (2022)
Eminem knelt post-Lose Yourself in a protest gesture against racism.
Michael Jackson’s Silent Entrance (1993)
Jackson stood motionless for nearly two minutes after a dramatic reveal, revolutionizing halftime shows.
Prince in the Rain (2007)
Prince closed with Purple Rain amid a downpour, embracing the weather.
M.I.A.’s Gesture (2012)
M.I.A. flipped the bird during Madonna’s set, prompting apologies from NFL and NBC.
50 Cent’s Upside-Down Entrance (2022)
50 Cent rappelled inverted from the rafters for In Da Club, mimicking his video.
