A fan-generated petition for George Strait to replace Bad Bunny as the halftime entertainment at the 2026 Super Bowl is attracting major support online.
Is There a Petition for George Strait to Perform at the 2026 Super Bowl?
Yes. As Entertainment Weekly reports, there have been negative reactions in some more conservative quarters to the NFL’s announcement that the Puerto Rican superstar would perform the halftime show in 2026.
As a result, a petition has launched on Change.org calling for Strait to replace Bad Bunny as the halftime entertainment.
“In recent years, this performance has leaned increasingly towards modern pop and international artists,” the petition argues. “While this approach certainly broadens the audience, it’s pivotal to remember the roots that have made American music what it is today.”
The petition further states that Strait “is not only a legend in the country music genre but a staple in American musical history. His ability to transcend generations with his timeless songs resonates with a diverse demographic, welcoming both long-time fans and newcomers.”
“The Super Bowl halftime show should unite our country, honor American culture, and remain family-friendly, not be turned into a political stunt,” the petition states. “Bad Bunny represents none of these values; his drag performances and style are the opposite of what families expect on football’s biggest stage … George Strait embodies unity, tradition, and the timeless American music that truly deserves the 2026 Super Bowl spotlight.”
The petition has garnered more than 58,000 signatures as of publication time.
Has a Country Star Ever Played at the Super Bowl?
Yes, but country-themed performances have been few and far between.
Several different country artists have performed the national anthem at the Super Bowl or taken part in other performances.
However, the last time a country singer performed during halftime was during Super Bowl XXXVII’s halftime show in 2003, when Shania Twain performed “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” and “Up!” during a set that also featured No Doubt and Sting.
When Is the Super Bowl in 2026?
The Super Bowl is set to take place on Sunday, Feb. 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in Satna Clara, Calif.
15 Country Artists Primed to Headline a Super Bowl Halftime Show
Any way you slice it, country music is long overdue for its time in the spotlight at the Super Bowl. Although several artists have sung the National Anthem at the game, the coveted halftime show has been anything but country for over three decades.
The last time anyone from the genre headlined the performance was in 1994, when Clint Black, Tanya Tucker, Travis Tritt, Wynonna Judd and Naomi Judd did a medley of their biggest hits. With country music gaining in popularity, there’s no better time than now to put one of our own in the spotlight. Here are 15 artists who are already primed to take on the task.
Gallery Credit: Jess
