Following the Super Bowl halftime show, speculation arose on social media regarding the identity of a young boy who received a Grammy Award from Puerto Rican rapper Bad Bunny. Many users believed the child was Liam Conejo Ramos, a five-year-old who was recently detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Minnesota. During the performance, Bad Bunny presented the award, which bore the encouraging message, “Cree siempre en ti,” translating to “always believe in yourself.”
Social media reactions were immediate, with one user expressing surprise at the perceived connection: “BENITO GAVE HIS GRAMMY TO LIAM RAMOS? I didn’t even realize that was him; I just thought it was like a little version of himself. MY HEART.”
However, a publicist for Bad Bunny clarified the situation to NPR Music, stating that the boy in question was in fact a child actor, not Conejo Ramos. Further confirmation from People Magazine identified the child as Lincoln Fox, a professional actor.
Political Reactions and Protests
The halftime performance has not only drawn attention for its emotional moments but also for the reactions it provoked, particularly from political figures. Former President Donald Trump criticized the show on Truth Social, describing it as “absolutely terrible, one of the worst, EVER!” He expressed discontent, stating, “It makes no sense, is an affront to the Greatness of America, and doesn’t represent our standards of Success, Creativity, or Excellence.” Trump further lamented that the content was unsuitable for young viewers, remarking, “Nobody understands a word this guy is saying, and the dancing is disgusting.”
Amid the controversy surrounding the performance, the plight of Liam Conejo Ramos remains a focal point of public concern. Earlier this year, his detention by ICE sparked widespread protests and outrage. Federal officials indicated that he was permitted to remain with his father following the father’s arrest in Minneapolis, a move aimed at preventing family separation.
In a statement, the Department of Homeland Security noted, “Parents are asked if they want to be removed with their children, or ICE will place the children with a safe person the parent designates.” This policy has intensified protests against ICE across the United States, particularly in Minnesota, where recent demonstrations against immigration policies resulted in tragic incidents, including the fatal shooting of two protesters in January. The FBI is currently investigating these events.
The Super Bowl halftime show, while a platform for entertainment, has become intertwined with serious discussions about immigration and the treatment of families. As the nation grapples with these issues, the reactions to Bad Bunny’s performance reflect broader societal concerns that extend far beyond the field.
