John Oliver has expressed his support for Bad Bunny amid the controversy surrounding the artist’s upcoming Super Bowl Halftime Show performance. During a recent episode of “Last Week Tonight,” Oliver commented on the uproar caused by the NFL’s choice of one of the music industry’s most successful figures for the event.
Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl Performance and the Backlash
The decision to feature Puerto Rican rapper Bad Bunny at the Super Bowl has ignited significant debate. Critics from the right, including Kristi Noem, a former campaign manager for Donald Trump and the Secretary of Homeland Security, voiced concerns about potential enforcement of immigration laws during the event.
- Noem warned that ICE agents would be present, stating they intended to “enforce the law.”
- Oliver highlighted the criticism of Bad Bunny’s status as an artist, despite Puerto Rico being a U.S. territory.
Bad Bunny’s Stance on Immigration
Bad Bunny has been vocal about his opposition to the Trump administration and its ICE raids. He has publicly stated he opted not to include the U.S. in his 2025-26 tour due to fears that ICE could target his performances.
During his recent hosting gig on “Saturday Night Live,” he addressed his detractors, encouraging them to learn Spanish before the Super Bowl.
ICE Raids and Community Response
Oliver transitioned the discussion to the troubling reality of recent ICE raids across the country. He described a particularly disturbing incident in Chicago where federal agents handcuffed a city council member and employed tear gas in a residential area.
- ICE raids have prompted widespread community protests across the U.S.
- Protests featured creative expressions, like a dancer in a large frog costume and humorous signs.
Call for Continued Resistance
Oliver emphasized the importance of challenging the current administration and exposing their actions against marginalized communities. He underscored that the strength of local backlash offers hope in these troubling times.
In conclusion, Oliver urged that the disturbing actions of ICE cannot be ignored. It is essential to continue advocating for change and standing against injustices in society.
