When Megyn Kelly denounced the NFL’s decision to name Puerto Rican star Bad Bunny as the 2026 Super Bowl halftime performer, she described it as “a middle finger to MAGA.” The segment, aired on her SiriusXM show, quickly made its way across social media. Joined by guests Britt Mayer and Will Witt, Kelly accused the league, and Jay-Z’s Roc Nation, which oversees the show, of forcing “woke ideology down America’s throat.”

A Question of Citizenship

Bad Bunny, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, is American. Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, its residents hold U.S. passports and serve in the U.S. military. Yet Kelly spoke as though he were a foreign performer invited in to taunt conservatives. She cited his concerns about ICE deportations as proof that he “hates the United States,” a claim that collapses under the most basic fact-checking.

Kelly went further, mocking the artist’s gender-fluid style and his previous drag performances. She described him as “a very unattractive female-looking thing,” language that drew sharp criticism for its derisive tone. Clips of the exchange were shared millions of times, with many viewers calling it outdated, xenophobic, and uncomfortably personal.

The Public Reaction

Online responses were largely unsympathetic. Even some conservative commentators questioned the usefulness of such outrage. For others, the irony was striking: a broadcaster who once decried “cancel culture” appeared eager to cancel a performer for dressing differently.

Bad Bunny’s appointment reflects the Super Bowl’s global direction. The halftime stage now mirrors the cultural reality of the United States, multilingual, diverse, and confident enough to showcase a reggaeton artist who bridges genres and continents. His influence extends well beyond language barriers.

Kelly’s discomfort says less about one performer than about a shifting nation. The halftime show, once dominated by classic rock and country acts, now celebrates the America that actually exists. Whether Kelly approves or not, millions will tune in next February. And if history is any guide, most will stay seated for the performance.

Discover more from Feminegra

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.