Story perspectives

FCC Clears Bad Bunny: No Violations Found in Halftime Show

2/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

The FCC reviewed transcripts of Bad Bunny's Super Bowl halftime show after Republicans raised concerns.
Commissioner Anna Gomez found no violations and dismissed Florida Rep. Randy Fine (R-Fla.)'s claims.
Tennessee Rep. Andy Ogles (R-TN.) echoed the sentiment, condemning the lyrics.
Bad Bunny made history as the first artist to perform a halftime show entirely in Spanish.
U.S. President Donald Trump criticized the unity message displayed as unsuitable for children.

History

Historical Context

In 2023, Bad Bunny became the first artist to perform a Super Bowl halftime show entirely in Spanish, marking a significant moment for Latinx representation in mainstream media. This event drew scrutiny from Republican lawmakers, echoing past controversies like the 2004 Janet Jackson incident, which resulted in stricter broadcasting regulations and ongoing debates about artistic expression versus political criticism in American media.

1 of 2

Story summary

The FCC reviewed transcripts of Bad Bunny's Super Bowl halftime show after Republicans raised concerns.
Commissioner Anna Gomez found no violations and dismissed Florida Rep. Randy Fine (R-Fla.)'s claims.
Tennessee Rep. Andy Ogles (R-TN.) echoed the sentiment, condemning the lyrics.
Bad Bunny made history as the first artist to perform a halftime show entirely in Spanish.
U.S. President Donald Trump criticized the unity message displayed as unsuitable for children.

1 / 2