US FCC requested transcript of Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl halftime performance

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) requested transcripts of Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl halftime performance from NBC after concerns were raised by a Republican lawmaker over possible indecency violations.

The request was made following the February 8 halftime show broadcast by NBC, which is owned by Comcast. The inquiry centred on whether any part of the performance violated federal broadcast regulations.

FCC review finds no violation of broadcast rules

FCC Commissioner Anna Gomez said she reviewed the transcripts, which included lyrics performed largely in Spanish, and found no breach of the agency’s indecency standards.

“I reviewed them carefully, and I found no violation of our rules and no justification for harassing broadcasters over a standard live performance,” Gomez said.

The inquiry followed concerns raised by Republican Representative Randy Fine, who suggested the Puerto Rican artist may have used inappropriate language during the performance. Fine had urged the FCC to consider imposing fines or reviewing NBC’s broadcast licence if violations were confirmed.

However, reports indicated that some lyrics containing explicit references were not performed during the live show. Sources familiar with the matter said the FCC does not plan to pursue further action unless new evidence emerges.

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NBC, Comcast, and the FCC did not immediately issue additional comments following the review.

Political reaction adds controversy to halftime performance

The halftime show also drew criticism from Donald Trump, who reacted on social media shortly after the performance. Trump criticised the show for being predominantly in Spanish and questioned its suitability for a national audience.

The performance itself was part of the Super Bowl halftime entertainment, one of the most widely watched live television events in the United States and globally. Bad Bunny, one of the world’s most commercially successful Latin artists, has been instrumental in bringing Spanish-language music to mainstream global audiences.

The FCC’s decision not to pursue enforcement action suggests the performance complied with federal broadcast standards, despite political criticism and public debate.

The incident highlights ongoing cultural and regulatory tensions around live broadcast performances, language, and artistic expression on major television platforms.