Turning Point USA, led by Charlie Kirk, reveals plans for its own Super Bowl halftime show after conservative backlash against Bad Bunny’s performance. The show will focus on “faith, family, and freedom.”
In response to conservative criticism of Puerto Rican artist Bad Bunny performing at next year’s Super Bowl, Turning Point USA (TPUSA) has revealed plans for its own alternative halftime show. The conservative group, founded by Charlie Kirk, will host The All American Halftime Show, a celebration of “faith, family, and freedom,” while Bad Bunny takes the official stage at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, in February 2026.
The announcement comes after backlash against Bad Bunny’s booking from several conservative figures, including former President Donald Trump, who called it “crazy.” Despite the criticism, Bad Bunny remains steadfast in his Super Bowl appearance, using his Saturday Night Live hosting slot on October 4 to quip, “I’m doing the Super Bowl halftime show and I’m very happy, and I think everyone is very happy about it. Even Fox News.”
The Controversy Surrounding Bad Bunny’s Performance
Bad Bunny, one of the most prominent figures in Latin music, has been the subject of considerable controversy in the lead-up to the Super Bowl announcement. Conservative commentators have criticized his decision to not bring his tour to the U.S. out of concern that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) might target concertgoers. This decision has only intensified the scrutiny surrounding his Super Bowl halftime show appearance.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem weighed in, saying that ICE agents would be present at the Super Bowl, ensuring that all attendees could “enjoy it and leave,” reinforcing her commitment to enforcing the law.
Turning Point USA, in turn, seized on the criticism and announced its plans for an alternative event to coincide with the official halftime show. The conservative group tweeted: “It’s true, Turning Point USA is thrilled to announce The All American Halftime Show. Performers and event details coming soon.”
The show is being pitched as a celebration of values that resonate with many conservative Americans, offering an alternative to Bad Bunny’s performance, which some view as politically charged.
Turning Point USA’s Recent Leadership Changes
The announcement of TPUSA’s Super Bowl halftime show also comes amid significant changes within the organization. Charlie Kirk’s wife, Erika Kirk, recently took over as CEO of Turning Point USA following the tragic assassination of her husband at a Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University.
Charlie Kirk was shot dead by 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, who is currently facing several serious charges, including aggravated murder, obstruction of justice, and felony discharge of a firearm. The event has sent shockwaves through the right-wing commentator community, and Erika Kirk’s leadership transition marks a new chapter for the organization.
A Divided Reaction to the Super Bowl Controversy
While Bad Bunny’s selection as the Super Bowl halftime performer has certainly sparked a polarizing debate, it has also drawn attention to the broader cultural divide between conservative and progressive viewpoints in America. The announcement of an alternative halftime show by Turning Point USA underscores this divide, with each side looking to celebrate its own values and preferences at one of the biggest entertainment events in the country.
Whether Turning Point USA’s All American Halftime Show will draw significant attention remains to be seen, but it is clear that the tension surrounding the Super Bowl performance is far from over.
