In a bold move reflecting the politicization of music, Turning Point USA, the organization founded by the late Charlie Kirk, has declared plans to host its own Super Bowl halftime show as a counter to the NFL’s official performance featuring Bad Bunny.
The group announced its upcoming “All American Halftime Show” via social media, promising news about performers and event specifics “coming soon.” Their announcement included a link to a survey where fans can select preferred music genres to be showcased, with options like “Anything in English,” “Americana,” and “Worship.” Interestingly, “Hip Hop” is also mentioned, despite Kirk’s previous criticism of the genre as “degenerate.”
Details regarding the airing of Turning Point’s alternative halftime event remain uncertain; viewers will need to switch away from the Super Bowl broadcast to watch the “All American Halftime Show,” which is intended to be a tribute to “faith, family and freedom,” as stated on their website.
The revelation that Bad Bunny would headline the 2026 Super Bowl led to immediate criticism from conservative circles. Some government officials scrutinized the Puerto Rican superstar’s Spanish-language music and his past remarks concerning his fears about U.S. immigration enforcement while touring.
Kristi Noem, the homeland security secretary, suggested immigration agents would be present at the Super Bowl, opining that the event should be exclusive to “law-abiding Americans who cherish this country.” House Speaker Mike Johnson critiqued the decision to feature Bad Bunny, suggesting that country star Lee Greenwood would appeal to a “broader audience,” though Greenwood has far fewer Spotify listeners—under 500,000—compared to Bad Bunny’s staggering 80 million. Former President Donald Trump disparaged the choice of Bad Bunny as “absolutely ridiculous,” despite admitting to not knowing who he was. The hosts of “The Charlie Kirk Show” have also voiced their disdain for Bad Bunny during a recent segment of the conservative talk show, which continues to air following Kirk’s tragic death in September during a debate at a Utah college campus. His widow, Erika Kirk, now leads Turning Point USA as CEO.
During his “Saturday Night Live” monologue on October 4, Bad Bunny addressed the backlash, humorously critiquing conservative figures while conveying heartfelt appreciation for his supporters and recognizing the contributions of Latinos to American culture. He humorously added in English, “If you didn’t grasp what I just said, you have four months to learn.”
The highly anticipated Super Bowl is scheduled for February 8, 2026.
