Deaf Puerto Rican Performer to Shine at Super Bowl Halftime Show

Celimar Rivera Cosme, a partially deaf performer from Puerto Rico, is set to lead a groundbreaking ‘multilingual signing program’ during Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl halftime show. This historic performance aims to highlight the Puerto Rican deaf community on one of music’s most prominent stages. Rivera Cosme will be using Puerto Rican Sign Language (LSPR), which differs from American Sign Language due to its unique grammar, rhythm, and cultural background, reflective of the identity of the Puerto Rican deaf community.

An official release from the NFL noted, ‘In a historic first, the signed rendition of the Apple Music Halftime Show will feature a multilingual signing program incorporating Puerto Rican Sign Language, led by Deaf Puerto Rican performer Celimar Rivera Cosme.’

Rivera Cosme shared her enthusiasm with ABC News through a Spanish interpreter, saying, ‘I feel incredibly proud because everything that Bad Bunny is doing is making history. And it means that sign language is also going to make history there.’ She emphasized the importance of showcasing their distinct language, identity, and culture.

Known for her dynamic and expressive style, Rivera Cosme integrates storytelling, rhythm, and passion into her sign language interpretation, echoing the energy of live music performances. She clarified that her Super Bowl appearance is not just a translation but a performance in its own right. She noted, ‘Interpretation is one thing, but I’m not going there to interpret, I’m going to perform. In Puerto Rico, we’re very used to seeing interpreters everywhere. But the Super Bowl is different — you have to add your flow, your vibe, your style, and your attitude, and bring all of that together with the interpretation. The body’s movement is different.’

Rivera Cosme expressed her surprise and sense of responsibility upon learning she was chosen for the role, saying, ‘I said, Well, this means a great responsibility for me, especially for my deaf community, because it’s great that they chose me, but I want to shine, and I want the Puerto Rican deaf community to shine with me too.’

Having previously interpreted for Bad Bunny during other major performances, such as his 2022 World’s Hottest Tour and his El Choli residency in Puerto Rico, Rivera Cosme has already made a significant impact. The residency celebrated Puerto Rican identity and drew more than 400,000 fans. She stated, ‘But the Super Bowl is a very big stage where many people will have their eyes on this event, and I’m very proud of that and of representing our Puerto Rican Sign Language.’

The NFL announced that fans who are deaf or hard of hearing can access the Super Bowl LX Pregame Ceremony and the halftime show through a dedicated stream featuring both American Sign Language and LSPR performances, which will be available on multiple digital platforms.