The Super Bowl halftime show is one of the biggest stages in entertainment. While fans often assume artists are paid huge fees, the reality is very different.
Bad Bunny has been chosen to headline the 2026 halftime show. He is one of the world’s most popular musicians and a major figure in Latin music. His appearance is seen as an important moment for representation on a global stage watched by millions.
Despite the massive audience, halftime performers do not receive a traditional paycheck from the NFL. Artists are only paid a small, union-required fee, usually just a few hundred dollars. In fact, performers often cover many of their own production costs, which can run into millions of dollars.
So why do artists agree to perform? The answer is exposure. The halftime show reaches well over 100 million viewers in the US alone, with even more watching worldwide or online afterward. This visibility can quickly boost music sales, streaming numbers, tour demand, and brand value.
NFL executives have explained that artists understand the long-term benefits. Performing at the Super Bowl can lead to major financial gains later, even without direct payment. For stars like Bad Bunny, the halftime show is less about immediate money and more about global impact, cultural influence, and career growth.