Marc Anthony Warns Bad Bunny to “Be Responsible” Ahead of His Historic 2026 Super Bowl Halftime Show Performance
When Bad Bunny steps onto the stage of Super Bowl LX on February 8, 2026, he won’t just be performing songs—he’ll be carrying the pride of millions. For the first time, a primarily Spanish-language artist will headline the Apple Music Super Bowl Halftime Show at Levi’s Stadium, and few people understand the pressure of that moment better than Marc Anthony. The salsa legend, who once performed “America the Beautiful” at a Super Bowl, has now shared heartfelt advice with his longtime friend: enjoy the moment, but remember the weight it carries.
In a recent interview, Anthony described what he told Bad Bunny about taking on the world’s most-watched stage. “I tell him to just be responsible with the risk and with the responsibility that he’s taking on,” he explained, noting that this performance will represent far more than one man’s career. “I’m sure for him, he sees this as a massive responsibility to represent not only his culture but his music.” For Anthony, that’s the true challenge of global fame—to rise to the occasion while remaining grounded in what brought you there.
Bad Bunny, born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, has become one of the most influential musicians on the planet. With a staggering 80 million monthly Spotify listeners, three Grammy Awards, and record-shattering tours, his ascent is nothing short of historic. His upcoming Super Bowl performance will mark another milestone for Latin artists in the U.S.—a celebration of sound, language, and cultural impact that transcends barriers. But Anthony, a mentor figure who has watched the younger star’s growth closely, emphasizes that such visibility brings pressure. “He’s not there because he’s lucky,” Anthony said. “He’s there based on merit and everything he’s accomplished. His numbers are astronomical.”
That confidence, however, comes with humility. Anthony remembers what it feels like to stand before millions, to feel the magnitude of representing an entire culture. His advice to Bad Bunny isn’t to fear that weight but to channel it—to let it inspire, not overwhelm. “Enjoy it, but don’t forget why you’re there,” Anthony has often said to younger performers who look up to him. For him, the Super Bowl Halftime Show is not merely a performance; it’s a statement of who gets to define modern American culture.
Bad Bunny has already faced controversy surrounding the announcement. Some conservative commentators questioned the NFL’s decision to feature a Puerto Rican trap and reggaeton artist at such a high-profile American event. Still, the league stood firm. “We are confident it’s going to be a great show,” Commissioner Roger Goodell told reporters, while fans across the world celebrated the choice as a long-overdue recognition of Latin music’s global dominance.
Marc Anthony knows those criticisms are not new. He’s seen them before—directed at Latin performers who dared to occupy spaces once reserved for others. His advice for Bad Bunny isn’t to respond to critics but to outshine them. “Bad Bunny reminds me of me when I was younger,” Anthony said. “He’s done everything his own way and he’s having fun with it. That’s the magic.” It’s that sense of freedom, balanced with a deep respect for the culture that made him, that Anthony believes will make the halftime show unforgettable.
Over the years, the Super Bowl Halftime Show has evolved into a global stage for unity and storytelling. From Shakira and Jennifer Lopez’s fiery 2020 collaboration to Rihanna’s 2023 spectacle, each performance has mirrored the cultural pulse of its time. Bad Bunny’s turn will likely follow that trajectory—infused with energy, identity, and pride. “This is an accomplishment for everybody,” Anthony said. “It demonstrates that our mark and our contribution to this country will never be erased.”
Bad Bunny’s influence extends far beyond music. He has used his art and visibility to advocate for Puerto Rico, social equality, and individuality. His Super Bowl appearance promises to reflect that same authenticity—an artist performing not just to entertain but to empower. And Anthony, as a mentor, sees the opportunity clearly: “He knows the eyes of the world are on him. He’s going to give them something to remember.”
When asked what specific guidance he shared, Anthony’s tone shifted from celebratory to serious. “Be responsible with the moment,” he said. “Understand what it means. It’s not just a concert—it’s a statement.” To him, the halftime show symbolizes the merging of entertainment and identity, a place where culture meets commerce and art meets legacy. For Bad Bunny, that means every lyric, every outfit, every camera angle will carry meaning.
In the months leading up to the event, Bad Bunny has shown he’s more than ready. His appearance on Saturday Night Live—where he performed in Spanish and told the audience, “If you didn’t understand what I just said, you have four months to learn”—was a bold declaration that his art will not conform for comfort. It was also a reminder of why Marc Anthony’s advice matters so much: authenticity is both power and pressure.
The connection between the two artists runs deep. They share Puerto Rican roots, a devotion to Latin music’s evolution, and a mutual respect that spans generations. Anthony’s encouragement comes from experience, not ego. He’s lived the highs and lows of stardom, the scrutiny, and the celebration. His advice carries the tone of a mentor who knows the stakes but believes in the student’s strength.
As February 2026 approaches, all eyes will turn to Levi’s Stadium. The performance is expected to blend high production with cultural storytelling, featuring nods to Latin rhythms, Caribbean percussion, and global collaborations. Whether Bad Bunny chooses to go minimalist or maximalist, one thing is certain—he will be performing with purpose.
For Anthony, that’s the ultimate message: that this isn’t just about dazzling visuals or breaking records. It’s about defining an era. “When he steps on that stage, he’s representing a lot of people who never thought they’d see themselves there,” Anthony said. “He’s going to make us proud.”
From mentor to friend, from icon to peer, Marc Anthony’s words echo like a rhythm beneath the lights: stay humble, stay sharp, stay true. The Super Bowl Halftime Show may last less than 15 minutes, but the impact of those minutes will be measured for years. As Bad Bunny prepares to make history, he’ll do so carrying not only his music but the voices of generations—guided, in part, by one of Latin music’s greatest.
