Bad Bunny Claps Back to the Homeland Security Secretary's Immigration Warnings Ahead of Super Bowl Performance

In his opening monologue as host of the season premiere of SNL, the popular artist responded to controversial comments made by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem regarding his upcoming 2026 Super Bowl show.

This young Latin music icon joked that "everyone" was pleased about his scheduled show, "even Fox News."

“It’s good to be back. This is my second time hosting and my fourth time being here,” he told the audience. “I’m doing the Super Bowl half-time show. I’m very happy and I think everyone is happy about it.”

A short video clip came after showing Fox News contributors seeming to endorse Bad Bunny for president.

An Important Statement for the Latino Community

In his monologue, Bad Bunny spoke in Spanish to speak to "Latinos everywhere across the globe and here in the U.S.."

He stated that being chosen for the halftime show was not just a personal achievement but a win for the entire community, showing that their impact in the U.S. will never be removed.

Afterwards, in English, he added, "If you didn’t understand what I just said, you have four months to learn."

Conservative Backlash and Noem's Comments

News of Bad Bunny’s performance caused anger among right-wing commentators, including Kristi Noem.

During a podcast appearance, Noem warned that just U.S. citizens should attend the upcoming game and threatened that immigration officers "will be all over" the event.

Noem further suggested the NFL would "regret its decision" for choosing Bad Bunny.

Tour Omission and Recent Success

Previously, Bad Bunny explained that concerns of immigration enforcement at his live events led to him excluding the U.S. from his forthcoming world tour.

Recently concluding a three-month performance run in San Juan, Puerto Rico, which reportedly drew hundreds of thousands of fans.

"The shows were incredible, and the fans were amazing," he said during his SNL monologue.

Comedy Segments and Topical Humor

During additional segments of the season opener, cast member Colin Jost portrayed former Fox News host Pete Hegseth.

That segment included a rant about the armed forces, mockingly echoing the host’s recent statements about diversity and body-shaming within the military.

Additionally, actor James Austin Johnson made a short cameo as a "unofficial watchdog" of the show, saying he was there to make sure "they don’t say anything too mean about me."