Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl Show: Debunking Misinformation

Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl Performance: Misinformation and AI-generated Images

Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny recently performed at the Super Bowl halftime show. Before his big moment, a fake image circulated online, claiming to show him burning a US flag while wearing a dress in the colors of the transgender pride flag. This image sparked outrage among some conservative social media users. However, it has been proven to be a fabrication created by artificial intelligence.

The Fake Image: Origins and Claims

On February 8, 2025, a post on X claimed, “NFL half-time show. Change the channel.” Many similar posts followed. Some users suggested the image showed Bad Bunny “running through rehearsals” or preparing for his show. Others even claimed he burned the flag during his performance.

Social Media Reactions

• Some users, including commentator Benny Johnson, urged others to boycott the Super Bowl and watch an alternative show led by Turning Point USA, featuring Kid Rock.
• These claims were fueled by the misleading image that painted Bad Bunny in a negative light.

Bad Bunny’s Real Performance

In reality, Bad Bunny, whose full name is Benito Antonio Martinez Ocasio, performed a series of hits, starting with “Titi Me Pregunto.” His set highlighted Puerto Rican culture and featured appearances from celebrities like Pedro Pascal and Karol G. He also made a statement against Immigration and Customs Enforcement at the Grammys just days before his Super Bowl show.

Support for LGBTQ Community

• Bad Bunny has been a vocal supporter of the LGBTQ community.
• He has worn skirts in several public appearances, including a notable Harper’s Bazaar photoshoot in 2022.

Debunking the Fake Image

The image claiming to show Bad Bunny burning a US flag is not real. Reverse image searches revealed that it was made using Google AI. Gemini, another AI tool, found a SynthID watermark attached to the image, indicating it was artificially created.

Inconsistencies in the Image

• The picture displayed warped faces and an American flag with only 11 stripes, rather than the 13 that represent the original colonies.
• Bad Bunny’s many tattoos were missing from the fake image.

What Happened During the Actual Show

During his Super Bowl performance, Bad Bunny did not burn a US flag. Instead, he performed in front of flags from the United States and other nations, stating, “God bless America.” He even shouted out countries from North, South, and Central America.

His Outfit and Setting

• Bad Bunny wore an all-white suit with his name stitched on the back.
• He was not surrounded by filming fans, unlike what the AI-generated image suggested.

Looking at the Misinformation Landscape

This incident highlights the importance of verifying information online. Misinformation can spread quickly, especially on social media. As fans and viewers, it’s essential to check facts before reacting or sharing content.

“Sometimes, what we see online can be misleading. It’s crucial to look deeper.”

“Even celebrities like Bad Bunny can become targets of fake news.”

Bad Bunny is known for his passion and talent, and misinformation should not overshadow his achievements and artistry. As we enjoy performances and events, let’s strive to be informed and thoughtful in our reactions.