Kid Rock to Headline Turning Point USA’s Alternative Super Bowl Halftime Show in Protest of Bad Bunny
Kid Rock has been announced as the headliner of Turning Point USA’s alternative Super Bowl halftime show, positioning the event as a conservative counter-program to Bad Bunny’s official NFL halftime performance. The show is scheduled to stream simultaneously with the Super Bowl halftime on conservative media platforms and Turning Point USA’s digital channels.
Turning Point USA previously confirmed plans to stage an alternative halftime event in response to Bad Bunny’s selection, but the performer lineup was revealed for the first time on Monday. Alongside Kid Rock, the show will feature country artists Lee Brice, Brantley Gilbert, and Gabby Barrett, with additional performers expected to be announced.
“We plan to play great songs for folks who love America,” Kid Rock said in a statement. Describing the event as a “David and Goliath” challenge, he acknowledged the difficulty of competing with the NFL and a global pop star but framed the show as a cultural alternative rather than a commercial one.
Referencing Bad Bunny’s planned performance, Kid Rock added, “He’s said he’s having a dance party, wearing a dress, and singing in Spanish. Cool. We plan to play great songs for folks who love America.” Reports suggesting Bad Bunny would wear a dress during the official halftime show have since been denied.
Where to Watch the Alternative Halftime Show
Turning Point USA’s halftime broadcast will air on outlets including OAN News, religious broadcaster TBN, and the organization’s social media platforms. The event has been branded the “All-American Halftime Show,” with organizers emphasizing themes of faith, family, and patriotism.
Turning Point USA was founded by conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was killed during a public appearance last year. His widow, Erika Kirk, has continued the organization’s work.
About the Performers
While not all of the announced artists are current chart leaders, each has a history of commercial success.
Brantley Gilbert scored five No. 1 country hits between 2011 and 2019 and released his most recent album, Tattoos, in 2024.
Lee Brice last released an album in 2020 (Hey World), which reached No. 8 on the country albums chart and followed a streak of eight No. 1 country airplay singles.
Gabby Barrett, who rose to fame on American Idol, achieved major crossover success with her debut single “I Hope,” which peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and went eight-times platinum.
Political Backlash to Bad Bunny’s Booking
Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl halftime selection has sparked criticism from several Republican politicians. House Speaker Mike Johnson questioned the decision last fall, suggesting the performer may not appeal to a broad audience. Senator Tommy Tuberville echoed similar sentiments, referring to the Super Bowl as the “Woke Bowl” and stating he plans to watch the TPUSA broadcast instead.
Former President Donald J. Trump also criticized the halftime lineup in a recent interview, saying the choice “sows hatred” and calling it “a terrible decision.”
Turning Point USA spokesperson Andrew Kolvet described the alternative show as a family-friendly option. “The All-American Halftime Show is an opportunity for Americans to enjoy entertainment with no agenda other than celebrating faith, family, and freedom,” he said.
As Super Bowl Sunday approaches, the competing halftime events highlight the growing cultural divide surrounding one of America’s most-watched television moments.