Charlie Puth Reacts to Criticism of His Super Bowl Performance, Teases "Very Unique Surprise"

Charlie Puth is gearing up for his Super Bowl debut in February, confidently addressing comparisons and critiques from fans. The singer, a four-time Grammy nominee, will perform the national anthem at Super Bowl LX on February 8, 2026 in Santa Clara, California.

After the announcement, some social media users questioned the choice, referencing past legendary performances, including Whitney Houstons iconic rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner at the 1991 NFL championship. One comment suggested, Charlie Puth? Hes not gonna give us vocals Im afraid.

Puth responded on X (formerly Twitter), stating, Ill never claim to be as good of a singer as Whitney Houston ever was. But I assure you were putting a really special arrangement together- in D major. Itll be one of my best vocal performances.

Alongside Puth, Brandi Carlile will perform America the Beautiful, and Coco Jones will sing Lift Every Voice and Sing at locations around the San Francisco Bay Area, forming part of the 2026 Super Bowl pregame lineup.

The announcement follows the September confirmation of Bad Bunny as the halftime show headliner. His selection stirred controversy among political groups, including threats from former Trumps Department of Homeland Security, despite the three-time Grammy winner being a U.S. citizen from Puerto Rico. In response, Turning Point USA planned a separate alternative halftime show on the same day.

Author: Sophia Brooks