Bad Bunny Condemns Tony Hinchcliffe’s Controversial Puerto Rico Joke at Trump Rally

The Puerto Rican superstar reflects on the offensive remark, emphasizing the power of context and responsible speech.

Puerto Rican music sensation Bad Bunny has spoken out against comedian Tony Hinchcliffe for his controversial comment during an October rally for President-elect Donald Trump at Madison Square Garden. At the rally, Hinchcliffe referred to Puerto Rico as a “floating island of garbage,” a remark that sparked widespread backlash, including from the Grammy-winning artist.

“It Wasn’t Funny”: Bad Bunny’s Reaction

In an interview with The New York Times, Bad Bunny, born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, expressed his frustration, stating the comment was not just offensive but also inappropriate for the event’s context. “It wasn’t a stand-up comedy show. It was supposed to be a political rally,” he remarked, emphasizing the potential for such statements to fuel harmful stereotypes.

The artist admitted he initially mistook Hinchcliffe for a politician due to his formal attire and the setting. “Most people don’t know who the f—k you are,” he said, pointing out that many attendees likely perceived Hinchcliffe as a serious figure, making the comment even more damaging.

Bad Bunny’s Continued Advocacy for Puerto Rico

Following the rally, Bad Bunny used his platform to advocate for Puerto Rico, endorsing Kamala Harris’s presidential bid and sharing plans aimed at uplifting the island. In a poignant Instagram post, he celebrated Puerto Rican resilience, sharing a video from his 2021 sold-out San Juan concert, captioned with a subtle but cutting remark: “garbage.”

The singer reflected on his decision to address the controversy, stating it stemmed from genuine emotion rather than the expectations tied to his fame. “Everything that I say and everything that I do is because I feel it, not because I feel a pressure to say something because I’m a public figure,” he explained.

A Broader Conversation on Responsibility

Bad Bunny’s critique of Hinchcliffe highlights the importance of context and responsibility in public speech, particularly in politically charged settings. While comedians like Jon Stewart defended Hinchcliffe as simply doing his job, Bad Bunny stressed that certain platforms demand more sensitivity and awareness.

As the debate continues, Bad Bunny remains steadfast in his mission to celebrate and defend Puerto Rico, using his global platform to amplify the island’s story and resilience. His message serves as a reminder of the profound impact words can have, especially in spaces that shape public opinion and cultural narratives.