The build-up to Super Bowl LX has taken an unexpected turn, not from a dramatic play on the field, but from a whirlwind of fan speculation online. The confusion began when singer Charlie Puth shared an excited post on X, formerly Twitter, stating, "I can't believe I'm saying this… I will be performing the National Anthem at Super Bowl LX." While a clear announcement, many casual followers misinterpreted the message, sparking a chain reaction of rumours.
How a Simple Announcement Sparked Major Rumours
Puth's declaration about singing the National Anthem was mistakenly seen by some as him stepping into a much larger role. This misunderstanding quickly snowballed across social media platforms. The core false narrative suggested that global superstar Bad Bunny, who was announced as the halftime show headliner back in September, had been pulled from the broadcast or replaced entirely. The speculation gained traction partly because the NFL has been steadily announcing a star-studded pregame musical lineup. The recent additions of artists Coco Jones and Brandi Carlile only amplified the chatter, making some fans believe a major shake-up was underway.
The Truth: An Expanded Entertainment Spectacle
Contrary to the swirling rumours, the NFL's original plan remains firmly intact. Bad Bunny is still the confirmed and unchallenged headliner for the Super Bowl LX halftime show. The league's strategy is not about substitution but about significant expansion. They are deliberately transforming the Super Bowl into a layered, concert-style broadcast long before the first snap of the football.
Here is the actual musical lineup for Super Bowl LX at Levi's Stadium:
- Charlie Puth will perform the National Anthem.
- Coco Jones will deliver "Lift Every Voice and Sing."
- Brandi Carlile will perform "America the Beautiful."
- ASL sign artists Fred Beam and Julian Ortiz will provide inclusive representation for the performances.
This diverse spectrum of music is designed to build anticipation differently than in past years, carving out a full-day cultural showcase rather than focusing solely on the halftime spectacle. The NFL is aware of Bad Bunny's immense value, bringing global reach and a passionate fanbase, particularly among younger and Latino audiences. Even earlier backlash from some political commentators following his September announcement did not alter the league's commitment.
A Celebration of Diverse Sounds
Ultimately, Super Bowl LX is shaping up to be less about drama and more about a grand celebration of music. Charlie Puth isn't replacing Bad Bunny; he is complementing him as part of a broader entertainment vision. The overall approach indicates this year's production aims to appeal simultaneously to pop fans, R&B listeners, Americana audiences, and a cross-national demographic that extends beyond traditional NFL viewers. Instead of one defining performance, viewers will be treated to a full spectrum of sounds, all culminating with Bad Bunny owning the halftime stage as originally planned. The rumours, while false, have unintentionally highlighted the growing cultural significance of the Super Bowl's musical acts and Bad Bunny's central role in it.
