Turning Point USA’s All-American Halftime Show paused briefly to honor founder Charlie Kirk on Sunday, as Kid Rock concluded a song during the performance, Fox News reports. The veteran entertainer closed the program after appearances by Lee Brice, Gabby Barrett, and Brantley Gilbert. As he finished, video boards around the stage displayed images of Kirk, his wife Erika, and their children.
“In remembrance of Charlie Kirk” appeared across the photos while the broadcast aired one of the late conservative activist’s speeches. Kirk was tragically assassinated in September during a speech at Utah Valley University.
The program presented a string of patriotic numbers intended to counterprogram against the Super Bowl LV halftime show headlined by Bad Bunny. Brantley Gilbert opened the show with the line, “This is real American,” while wearing a T‑shirt emblazoned with “God, family, country.”
The livestream on YouTube reportedly drew more than 4.8 million viewers before the program’s end. According to the outlet, Pete Hegseth, War Department Secretary, also noted that he and his family were watching. Before the broadcast, Turning Point USA’s Andrew Kolvet said in a press release that the All-American Halftime Show offers an apolitical option for families to enjoy during the big game, celebrating faith, family, and freedom. He added that the performers would deliver a fun, high-quality show that would captivate viewers nationwide.
Gilbert also explained beforehand why he was taking part. In a statement, the Georgia-born artist shared that he grew up in Jackson County and still lives there, with the aim of filling nearby theaters by writing songs. He described himself as a recovering addict who has faced difficult choices in the past, not glossing over them but choosing to move in a healthier direction.
“I share my story through my music in hopes that it may help and inspire others in their darkest hour,” Gilbert said. “I’m a Christian, and I love our country despite its flaws. I’ve dedicated part of my life to the men and women who fight for it and the families of those who gave their life for it. Above all, I’m a proud husband and father of three.”
The Superbowl Halftime Show performed by Bad Bunny received a thorough review from President Trump who called it “one of the worst ever,” according to Fox News.
“The Super Bowl Halftime Show is absolutely terrible, one of the worst, EVER! It makes no sense, is an affront to the Greatness of America, and doesn’t represent our standards of Success, Creativity, or Excellence. Nobody understands a word this guy is saying, and the dancing is disgusting, especially for young children that are watching from throughout the U.S.A., and all over the World,” President Trump wrote on Truth Social.
“This ‘Show’ is just a ‘slap in the face’ to our Country, which is setting new standards and records every single day — including the Best Stock Market and 401(k)s in History! There is nothing inspirational about this mess of a Halftime Show and watch, it will get great reviews from the Fake News Media, because they haven’t got a clue of what is going on in the REAL WORLD — And, by the way, the NFL should immediately replace its ridiculous new Kickoff Rule. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”