Bad Bunny’s upcoming performance at Super Bowl LX has ignited controversy, with former ESPN host Sage Steele voicing strong disapproval. On Friday, speaking on The Daily Caller’s Actual Friends podcast, Steele criticized NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell’s support of the Puerto Rican artist, condemning Bad Bunny for spreading what she described as hateful and anti-American messages.
Steele stated,
“I’m just sad and disappointed that they chose someone who is so full of hate, who spews hate… and he is basically anti-American. And I think that’s the part that bothers me.”
Skepticism Over Language and Cultural Statements
Steele reiterated her concerns on Fox News’ The Faulkner Focus, pointing to Bad Bunny’s comments about language as particularly troubling. She referenced his declaration about refusing to speak English and expecting others to learn Spanish instead, highlighting this as an unacceptable stance in most countries.
She said,
“When he says, ‘I’m not going to speak your language, you have four months to learn it,’ are you kidding me? It would never be acceptable in their country. So, that’s the disturbing (thing).”
Business Motives Behind NFL’s Decision
Despite her clear disapproval, Steele recognized the NFL’s commercial motivations in featuring Bad Bunny. She explained that Commissioner Goodell’s primary concern is expanding the league’s global reach, regardless of players’ or fans’ opinions.
According to Steele,
“All the commissioner cares about right now is growing the game, and they want to be in more countries. They don’t care what the players that were interviewed are saying or what the fans are saying. This is about the business of the NFL and making it more global.”
Guy Fieri Counters Criticism, Encourages Unity
In contrast to Steele’s critical views, celebrity chef Guy Fieri expressed support for Bad Bunny’s performance during an event hosted by Shaquille O’Neal at the Cow Palace on Friday. Speaking to the San Francisco Chronicle, Fieri called for calm amid the controversy, emphasizing the importance of enjoying the occasion.
He remarked,
“I don’t like the divisiveness. I think everyone needs to settle down. … This is the biggest sports moment in history. This is the 60th Super Bowl. Let’s celebrate that. Be who you are, wherever you’re from, whatever you love — just enjoy it. A great halftime show is all that I want, and I do think we’ll have an entertaining halftime show.”
Super Bowl LX Anticipation Builds
The Super Bowl LX kickoff is scheduled for 6:30 pm ET/3:30 pm PT on NBC, with fans and critics alike awaiting Bad Bunny’s halftime performance amid the ongoing debate. The diverging opinions reflect broader tensions over cultural representation and commercial interests in major sporting events. How the show will be received remains to be seen, but the controversy already underscores the NFL’s global ambitions and the challenges that come with them.
🚨NEW: @sagesteele on Bad Bunny Super Bowl Halftime Show:
"I'm just sad and disappointed that they chose someone who is so full of hate, who spews hate — and he is basically anti-American. And I think that's the part that bothers me."@DailyCaller pic.twitter.com/vfZoUzzMex
— Jason Cohen 🇺🇸 (@JasonJournoDC) February 7, 2026
