Fox News Host Greg Gutfeld Sparks Controversy with Super Bowl Halftime Show Critique
Fox News commentator Greg Gutfeld has ignited a firestorm of controversy with his recent comments about Bad Bunny's Super Bowl halftime performance. During Monday's episode of "The Five," Gutfeld delivered a scathing critique that included mocking the Puerto Rican superstar's accent and proposing an offensive alternative halftime show concept.
Gutfeld's Controversial Remarks About Bad Bunny's Performance
Gutfeld began his commentary by dismissing Bad Bunny's critically acclaimed halftime show with derisive remarks. "As a proud Latina, I don't care for it," he said sarcastically, before adding, "The music itself was mediocre. I didn't even listen to it, but I did enjoy watching it." The Fox News host then escalated his criticism by speaking in a fake accent while discussing the Latin pop superstar, who performs primarily in Spanish and hails from Puerto Rico.
During his rant, Gutfeld made several questionable claims, including stating that "twice as many Puerto Ricans are in the United States as in Puerto Rico" while overlooking the territory's status as a U.S. possession since 1898. He also dismissed the cultural significance of Bad Bunny's performance elements, particularly the utility poles featured during "El Apagón," a 2022 song referencing Puerto Rico's power outages.
The Offensive Alternative Halftime Show Proposal
Gutfeld's most controversial moment came when he jokingly proposed a Jewish-themed halftime show that would rely on harmful stereotypes. "What about the Jews, OK? There are twice as many Jews in the United States," he argued. "Where is the Jewish halftime? Where are the dancing accountants? The men slinging pastrami, the Jewish mothers telling you to get a sweater on ... and then, you cap it off with a live circumcision right at the 50-yard line."
This suggestion, which circulated widely on social media platforms, has drawn significant criticism for its reliance on antisemitic tropes and inappropriate humor. The Fox News host concluded his commentary by stating, "I don't come to the halftime for an education ... screw that. I just want to have fun. I got up; I took a piss."
Broader Context of Conservative Criticism
Bad Bunny's Super Bowl halftime show, which drew wide acclaim and massive ratings, has become a lightning rod for conservative criticism due to the artist's political positions. The Puerto Rican superstar has been vocal in his opposition to former President Donald Trump's immigration policies, reiterating this stance during his recent Grammy Awards speech.
This political dimension has prompted organized conservative responses, including Turning Point USA's alternative "All-American Halftime Show" featuring Trump loyalist Kid Rock. However, this counter-programming effort failed to match the viewership numbers of Bad Bunny's official performance, with even Trump himself apparently not tuning in to the alternative broadcast.
The controversy surrounding Gutfeld's comments highlights ongoing cultural divisions in American media and entertainment, particularly regarding representation, cultural sensitivity, and the intersection of politics with major sporting events like the Super Bowl.
