Super Bowl 61 is still months away, but the debate over its halftime show is already heating up—and not in a good way. According to recent reports, pop star Miley Cyrus has emerged as the leading candidate to take the stage at SoFi Stadium on Valentine's Day 2027. But instead of excitement, the news is drawing sharp criticism from football fans who feel the league keeps missing the mark.
The Super Bowl 61 halftime show will be part of a historic broadcast, as ESPN airs the big game for the first time. The matchup follows a dominant performance by the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl 60, where they defeated the New England Patriots. Last year's halftime headliner, Bad Bunny, received mixed reviews—some praised the energy and visuals, while others questioned the NFL's choice of a Puerto Rican artist.
Now, with Cyrus reportedly in pole position, the backlash is rolling in. Social media is flooded with complaints from fans who feel disconnected from the league's musical choices. One fan wrote, "It's just a little ironic how the NFL plays music in the stadiums during games that most ticket buyers like or at least recognize, but when it comes to the Super Bowl halftime show they always book acts that appeal to demographics that don't even have much interest in the games or teams."
Another fan simply stated, "Not happy with that," while others vowed to skip the performance entirely. "Another Super Bowl halftime show I won't be watching," one user commented. The sentiment was echoed by many, with one fan adding, "It's been years since a decent halftime show."
Of course, the NFL's strategy isn't necessarily to cater to die-hard football fans. The league typically selects performers who can deliver a spectacular show and attract the largest global audience. That approach has worked before—past halftime shows have drawn record viewership—but it also consistently sparks debate among purists.
The halftime show controversy isn't the only Super Bowl 61 story making waves. Meanwhile, ad prices for the game are already dropping, signaling a shift in the advertising market. And with Nashville set to host Super Bowl 2030, the excitement around future Super Bowls continues to build.
An official announcement for the Super Bowl 61 halftime performer is likely still a few months away, but if the current mood is any indication, the NFL will have its work cut out to win over skeptical fans. Whether Cyrus ultimately gets the nod or another name emerges, the conversation is far from over.
