KEY POINT
- Alternative event: The All-American Halftime Show will air at the same time as the NFL’s official halftime show featuring Bad Bunny.
- Lineup: The show features Kid Rock and prominent country artists, reflecting the group’s conservative messaging.
- Cultural significance: The move highlights ongoing debates over entertainment choices and the intersection of politics and popular culture in the United States.
SANTA CLARA, Calif. — Conservative organization Turning Point USA announced Monday that rock musician Kid Rock will headline an alternative halftime show during Super Bowl LX, positioning the event as a cultural counterpoint to the NFL’s official halftime performance by Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny on Feb. 8.
The event, called the “All American Halftime Show,” is promoted as a celebration of “faith, family and freedom” and will be livestreamed across Turning Point USA’s digital platforms. Kid Rock will be joined by country performers Brantley Gilbert, Lee Brice, and Gabby Barrett, according to the group.
“We’re approaching this show like David and Goliath,” Kid Rock said in a statement. “Competing with the pro football machine and a global pop superstar is almost impossible… or is it?”
The announcement marks an unusual moment in Super Bowl history, where a major nonprofit is creating a televised alternative to one of the most watched entertainment events globally.
The NFL’s selection of Bad Bunny, known for his Spanish language repertoire and global influence, generated both praise and criticism, particularly from conservative audiences.
Super Bowl halftime shows have traditionally been high-profile cultural moments, showcasing major artists across genres. In 2026, Bad Bunny becomes the first male Latin artist to headline the event, a milestone that has expanded representation on one of television’s largest stages.
Turning Point USA, founded by Charlie Kirk, has positioned the All American Halftime Show as a response to what it views as an opportunity to offer an alternative form of entertainment. The group cited a desire to highlight traditional American values in the broadcast.
Dr. Jane Phillips, a media studies professor at the University of Michigan, said the announcement reflects a trend where cultural events are increasingly politicized.
“Halftime shows are no longer just about music or spectacle,” she said. “They serve as stages where cultural identity and political views intersect.”
Dr. Luis Sandoval, sociologist at the University of Texas at Austin, noted the digital age enables niche audiences to access tailored programming.
“With livestreaming, groups like Turning Point USA can reach millions who may not engage with mainstream broadcasts,” he said.
Turning Point USA communications director Andrew Kolvet said the show aims to provide “an entertainment option for viewers who want a family-friendly experience alongside the Super Bowl.”
Kid Rock framed the performance as a cultural challenge against mainstream entertainment. “We want to create a show that entertains and resonates with people who value traditional American culture,” he said.
Meanwhile, Bad Bunny continues to garner global attention, maintaining a dominant presence in streaming platforms and recent award ceremonies. The artist’s selection reflects the NFL’s effort to diversify its halftime lineup while attracting international viewers.
The alternative broadcast could set a precedent for similar counter-programming during major cultural events. Audience engagement and viewership metrics may inform future initiatives aimed at niche or politically oriented audiences.
Sunday’s broadcasts will demonstrate how American entertainment can coexist with competing cultural narratives, highlighting shifting media consumption patterns and the role of digital platforms in shaping public engagement.