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In a move that highlights the unique dynamics of the Super Bowl halftime show, Bad Bunny will headline the 2026 event at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, but will not receive a performance fee. This decision aligns with the National Football League’s longstanding policy of not paying artists for their halftime performances, despite the show’s status as a coveted career milestone for musicians.
The NFL justifies this approach by emphasizing the unparalleled exposure artists receive. A spokesperson for the league previously stated to Forbes, “We do not pay the artists,” underscoring that the broadcast’s reach offers more value than monetary compensation. This policy has remained unchanged, even as global superstars like Beyoncé, Rihanna, and Usher have graced the stage.
The Economics of Super Bowl Performances
While artists do not receive direct payment for their performances, the production costs are substantial. The NFL covers expenses related to production, staging, and other associated costs, which can exceed $21 million. Sports Illustrated reports that performers are compensated at a minimum rate for their time, including rehearsals, but these payments are modest compared to the scale of the event.
For instance, Usher’s compensation for his 2024 performance reportedly amounted to just a few thousand dollars. However, the exposure from performing at an event that attracted over 127 million viewers in 2025, when Kendrick Lamar headlined, is considered invaluable.
Bad Bunny’s Meteoric Rise
Bad Bunny’s upcoming Super Bowl performance comes at a peak in his career. Recently, he made history at the 2026 Grammy Awards by winning Album of the Year for “Debi Tirar Mas Fotos,” further cementing his status in the music industry. Following the Super Bowl, he is set to embark on a global tour, including stops in Sydney and Melbourne, Australia.
This tour marks a significant shift, as Bad Bunny had previously avoided touring in the United States due to concerns over immigration enforcement, opting instead for an extended residency in Puerto Rico.
Historical Context of Super Bowl Halftime Shows
The Super Bowl halftime show has a storied history of featuring some of the world’s most iconic musicians. The past decade has seen a diverse array of performers:
- 2026: Bad Bunny
- 2025: Kendrick Lamar
- 2024: Usher
- 2023: Rihanna
- 2022: Dr. Dre featuring Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar, 50 Cent, and Anderson .Paak
- 2021: The Weeknd
- 2020: Shakira and Jennifer Lopez
- 2019: Maroon 5 featuring Big Boi and Travis Scott
- 2018: Justin Timberlake
- 2017: Lady Gaga
- 2016: Coldplay featuring Beyoncé and Bruno Mars
Looking Ahead
As the 2026 Super Bowl approaches, anticipation builds for Bad Bunny’s performance. While the lack of a performance fee may seem surprising, the opportunity for global exposure is a significant draw for artists. The event promises to be a spectacle, continuing the tradition of memorable halftime shows that captivate audiences worldwide.
With Bad Bunny’s star power and the Super Bowl’s massive viewership, the 2026 halftime show is poised to be another milestone in the illustrious history of this iconic event.
