In an unexpected twist to this year’s Halloween festivities, two of the instantly recognisable grass costumes from Bad Bunny’s record-breaking Super Bowl halftime show are now available for purchase on eBay, with price tags soaring to $5,000. These unique outfits, dubbed “grass bunnies” or “bush people,” have captured the imagination of fans and collectors alike since the show attracted a staggering 128.2 million viewers.
Costumes with a Backstory
The costumes, which are a playful tribute to Puerto Rican culture, were integral to Bad Bunny’s performance, where the dancers, hidden beneath layers of vibrant grass, stood still for nearly 13 minutes. The surreal aesthetic of the “bush people” has sparked a viral sensation, prompting sellers to cash in on their novelty. Each ensemble includes a green sweatsuit, grass-covered arms, and a variety of accessories, enabling buyers to truly embody the spirit of the halftime show.
One seller, listing their costume for $5,000 or best offer, highlights the comprehensive nature of the package. It features not only the costume itself but also a balaclava, gloves, safety glasses, and even an official in-ear radio used during rehearsals with surprise guests such as Lady Gaga and Ricky Martin. As an added touch, the seller offers an official Super Bowl LX tote bag and an NFL credential, ensuring buyers have irrefutable proof of their piece of history. “I really do not want to part with this, but you’ll be helping me pay off my student loans and will be helping me with my grandparents’ medical! God bless America and God bless Bad Bunny,” they wrote, adding a personal touch to the listing.
The Competition Heats Up
Another costume is currently listed at $4,499.99, with bids starting at $1,125. This set includes a mix of components such as large sweatpants, a small sweatshirt, and a numbered cast-member arm strap, alongside the same in-ear radio and tote bag. The seller encourages buyers not to miss the opportunity to own a piece of Super Bowl LX history, clearly aware of the costume’s rising fame.
For the performers who donned these elaborate outfits, the experience was both rewarding and challenging. They were compensated approximately $1,300 for 70 hours of work, which included eight days of rehearsals and the performance itself. This breaks down to about $18.70 per hour—significantly below the minimum wage in many states—though they were reimbursed for travel expenses. Notably, performers had to meet specific height and physique requirements, as the hefty costumes weighed between 40 to 50 pounds and required strong athletic builds to manage.
A Historic Performance
Bad Bunny’s halftime spectacle not only entertained but also made history. It marked the first time a solo male Latin artist headlined the show, and the first performance conducted entirely in a language other than English. This bold move stirred controversy among certain political circles, including remarks from former President Donald Trump, who expressed discontent over the performance on social media. Despite the backlash, Bad Bunny’s show became a defining moment in Super Bowl history, even drawing comparisons to Kendrick Lamar’s record of 133.5 million viewers.
The cultural significance of Bad Bunny’s performance transcends mere entertainment; it showcased the growing influence of Latin music and its ability to resonate on grand platforms. The halftime show, set against the backdrop of a thrilling showdown between the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots, further solidified its place in the annals of pop culture.
Why it Matters
The sale of these costumes represents more than just a Halloween trend; it highlights the intersection of celebrity culture, consumerism, and the evolving landscape of live performances. As audiences seek tangible connections to their favourite artists, the allure of owning a piece of history continues to grow. This phenomenon speaks to a broader cultural shift, where moments of artistic expression are commodified, allowing fans to engage with their idols in unprecedented ways. The grass costumes from Bad Bunny’s halftime show serve as a reminder of the power of performance art to inspire, provoke, and ultimately become part of the collective memory.
