Reps for Bad Bunny confirmed on Monday that he has tested positive for COVID-19. The Puerto Rican superstar cancelled his world premiere performance of “Dákiti” with Jhay Cortez at Sunday night’s American Music Awards.
Bad Bunny was expected to take the stage with Cortez in what was easily one of the most anticipated performances of the American Music Awards, especially since he didn’t perform the global no. 1 hit at last week’s Latin Grammys. Benito’s fans waited throughout the AMAs for a moment that never came.
“Bad Bunny was originally set to perform his #1 global hit ‘Dákiti’ with Jhay Cortez live for the first time at the AMAs but unfortunately, the artist tested positive for COVID-19, which forced him to cancel the presentation,” read a statement from his team.
Despite his cancelled performance, Bad Bunny won Favorite Male Latin Artist and Favorite Latin Album for YHLQMDLG at the American Music Awards. In a pre-recorded acceptance speech, he thanked his fans in English and Spanish. “To the Latinos running the world, I love you,” he said.
Bad Bunny also premiered his 30-second television commercial for his ”Deja Tu Huella” campaign with Cheetos. The spot was released online a few days prior. As part of his partnership with Cheetos, Bad Bunny has committed to giving $500,000 to the Latino community through his Good Bunny Foundation.
This year, the AMAs expanded its Latin categories to include Favorite Female Latin Artist, an honor the Mexican-American pop star Becky G took home. Colombian reggaetonera Karol G and Nicki Minaj’s monster hit “Tusa” won Favorite Latin Song. Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion’s “WAP” won Favorite Rap/Hip-Hop Song.
Bad Bunny is the latest reggaetonero to test positive for COVID-19. Karol G and J Balvin both confirmed they had the virus earlier this year.