Randy Fine demands FCC probe into Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl Halftime Show, calls performance ‘vulgar and offensive’
Bad Bunny during the halftime show at Super Bowl LX on Feb. 8 Image Credit: Todd Rosenberg/Getty Images
Florida Republican Rep. Randy Fine is demanding a federal investigation into Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl halftime performance, calling the broadcast “vulgar, indecent, and offensive” and urging regulators to determine whether federal broadcast rules were violated.
The controversy follows the Apple Music Super Bowl LX Halftime Show at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, where global music star Bad Bunny headlined one of the most-watched television events of the year.
Fine’s call for scrutiny adds to growing political backlash from Republican lawmakers who argue the performance crossed the line of what is acceptable on public airwaves.
Randy Fine’s Letter to the FCC Chairman
Rep. Randy Fine formally sent a letter to Brendan Carr, chairman of the Federal Communications Commission, demanding a probe into the halftime broadcast.
In the letter, Fine described the performance as inappropriate for a national audience and questioned how it was permitted to air during prime time television.
“It’s time to get answers about what happened and why this was allowed to take place NOW,” Fine wrote, according to reports.
The FCC regulates indecent and obscene content broadcast over public airwaves, particularly during hours when children are likely to be watching.
What the FCC Is Reviewing
According to reporting cited by The National News Desk and the New York Post’s “On The Money” column, the FCC has reviewed the halftime performance for potential violations of federal broadcast standards.
Sources familiar with the matter indicated that while the artist’s songs often contain explicit references, the Super Bowl performance was reportedly scrubbed of lyrics referencing sex acts and genitalia. If uncensored, such language could have violated FCC indecency rules.
The initial assessment suggests no clear rule violations occurred. However, Fine and other lawmakers argue further examination is warranted.
The NFL and broadcast partner NBC have not publicly responded to the renewed calls for investigation.
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Growing Political Backlash Over Super Bowl Performance
Fine is not alone in raising concerns. Rep. Andy Ogles and Rep. Mark Alford have also criticized the halftime show and suggested congressional scrutiny.
Some lawmakers argued the performance prioritized global audience expansion over traditional patriotic themes. The NFL, however, has defended its choice of performer.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell reportedly highlighted Bad Bunny’s ability to unite diverse audiences and expand the league’s international appeal.
Super Bowl LX and Cultural Spotlight
The Apple Music Super Bowl LX Halftime Show took place at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. As one of the most viewed annual broadcasts in the United States, the halftime show routinely attracts scrutiny and debate.
Bad Bunny, one of the world’s most-streamed artists, has become a major cultural figure representing Puerto Rican and Latin music globally. His selection was seen by many as a move to broaden the NFL’s international reach.
However, the performance has now become a flashpoint in a broader conversation about media standards, cultural representation, and the role of government oversight.
What Happens Next?
Reports indicate that, barring new evidence, the FCC may shelve further scrutiny. However, the political pressure from lawmakers like Fine could keep the issue in the spotlight.
Any formal FCC investigation would require review of broadcast recordings and public complaints. The agency typically evaluates whether content meets the legal definition of indecent or obscene under federal law.
For now, no penalties have been announced, and the performance remains available across various platforms.
FAQ
Who is Randy Fine?
Randy Fine is a Republican U.S. Representative from Florida who has called for an FCC investigation into Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl halftime show.
Why did Randy Fine demand an FCC probe?
Fine described the performance as “vulgar, indecent, and offensive” and questioned whether it violated federal broadcast standards.
Is the FCC investigating the halftime show?
Reports suggest the FCC reviewed the broadcast for potential violations but found that explicit lyrics were censored. Further action may depend on additional evidence.
Did Bad Bunny violate FCC rules?
Initial reports indicate that potentially explicit lyrics were edited out, meaning the broadcast may not have violated FCC indecency rules.
What is the FCC’s role in TV broadcasts?
The FCC regulates obscene and indecent material on public airwaves, especially during hours when children are likely to be watching.
Has the NFL responded?
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has defended the league’s selection of Bad Bunny, citing his global appeal and unifying presence.
Could fines or penalties happen?
Only if the FCC determines a violation occurred. As of now, no penalties have been issued.