SUMMARY
- The viral image showing Bad Bunny allegedly burning a US flag is digitally altered, according to AI detection sources.
- Bad Bunny concluded his halftime performance carrying the Puerto Rican flag, celebrating his heritage.
- The NFL performance broke streaming and viewership records despite online misinformation and political backlash.
San Francisco — An image claiming Puerto Rican artist Bad Bunny burned the American flag during his Super Bowl 60 halftime show circulated widely on social media on February 8, 2026. Officials and digital verification sources clarified the photo was AI-generated satire and did not depict a real event.
Bad Bunny, performing largely in Spanish at Levi’s Stadium, wrapped his 13-minute Super Bowl halftime show with a display of the Puerto Rican flag.
The performance coincided with the end of his 30-date Puerto Rican exclusive 2025 residency at San Juan’s Coliseo de Puerto Rico José Miguel Agrelot.
While critics questioned the NFL’s choice of a non English act, early reports indicate the halftime show drew record viewership.
Turning Point USA staged an alternative halftime show for audiences critical of Bad Bunny’s selection.
Simultaneously, a manipulated image purporting to show the artist burning the American flag spread across X, Facebook, and Instagram.
According to X’s community note, the original image appeared on a satire website and included a SynthID watermark, confirming its AI-generated origin.
“Social media amplification of AI-altered content can rapidly create false narratives,” said Dr. Mariana Rivera, professor of media studies at the University of Puerto Rico. “Even high profile live events are vulnerable to misinformation that misleads millions.”
Jeff Hall, senior analyst at Nielsen Sports, added, “Despite controversy and misinformation, Bad Bunny’s performance achieved record streaming numbers, showing the resilience of global artists in digital media.”
Rosa Martínez, attending the Super Bowl in person, said, “He honored his culture and fans; the flag story is completely false.” NFL spokesperson Jonathan Smith said, “No flag-burning occurred; we encourage verification of viral claims.”
The incident underscores the need for media literacy and verification, particularly around high profile live events where AI-generated images can spread quickly.
The viral flag burning claim illustrates the intersection of live entertainment, digital misinformation, and cultural symbolism. Bad Bunny’s performance remains a landmark for Latin music in the Super Bowl context.
NOTE! This article was generated with the support of AI and compiled by professionals from multiple reliable sources, including official statements, press releases, and verified media coverage. For more information, please see our T&C.
