Latin music superstar Bad Bunny appeared on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert for a fun and insightful interview, where he opened up about the meaning behind his stage name. Currently riding high on the success of his latest album Debí Tirar Más Fotos and the launch of his tour with a residency in Puerto Rico, the artist shared a more personal side of himself.

The Late Show has been in the spotlight recently after CBS announced it will be canceled in May 2026 when Colbert’s contract ends. While the network cited financial losses, the decision drew controversy as it came just days after Colbert harshly criticized Donald Trump on-air, calling him a “convicted dictator” and slamming a multi-million dollar deal between Paramount (CBS’s parent company) and the former president.

The Meaning Behind Bad Bunny’s Stage Name

During the interview, Colbert asked, “Is it a stage name, or is it a slightly different person?”

“It’s definitely a stage name,” Bad Bunny replied. “At the very beginning, Bad Bunny was a character but, growing up, I think there is more of Benito in Bad Bunny. I learned that there’s nothing better than being yourself. In life, in art, in music… being yourself is the best. So, Benito and Bad Bunny are the same.”

As the artist himself says, “Bad Bunny” was a name that made sense at the beginning of his career, during a time when reggaetón was harder and more raw — a style that’s very present in songs like Soy Peor and Te Boté.

“Maybe when I’m on stage, Bad Bunny feels more confident and powerful, I feel different. But it’s something about being on stage and the connection with the crowd,” he added.

It’s common for artists to adopt stage names that reflect their alter egos, personas they embody while performing. However, Bad Bunny’s reflection shows how his artistic identity has grown closer to his real self. His latest album is a testament to that evolution — a return to his roots and a tribute to Puerto Rico. Benito, his real name, now seems more present in his work than ever.

No U.S. Dates Yet for Debí Tirar Más Fotos Tour

Despite his massive popularity and fan base in the U.S., Bad Bunny has yet to announce any tour dates in the country. In a recent interview, he said performing there again felt “unnecessary” given how often he had toured the U.S. in recent years. Still, the return of Donald Trump to political prominence — and the challenges his potential leadership poses for the Latino community — may also be influencing that decision. Other Latin artists and festivals have similarly pulled out of U.S. appearances in response.