The ongoing cultural clash over Bad Bunny’s headline performance at Super Bowl LX has intensified with the launch of a conservative-alternative halftime show, underscoring deep political divisions in American entertainment.
As the NFL prepares for Bad Bunny’s much-debated appearance on February 8, 2026, right-wing organization Turning Point USA has unveiled plans for a competing “All-American Halftime Show” featuring Kid Rock and a lineup of country artists. The move directly responds to months of conservative backlash against the Puerto Rican superstar, whose selection was announced in September 2025. TPUSA founder Charlie Kirk framed the event as a celebration of “American culture, freedom, and faith,” positioning it against what some critics call the NFL’s progressive agenda. The alternative show is scheduled to air live around 8 p.m. ET during the Super Bowl, streaming on platforms like YouTube, X, and Rumble, as well as conservative media outlets.
Bad Bunny, a Grammy-winning artist and U.S. citizen from Puerto Rico, has been at the center of controversy due to his outspoken views on immigration and his decision to perform primarily in Spanish. Following the announcement, former President Donald Trump and other Republicans swiftly condemned the choice, with Trump suggesting Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents should monitor the event. The backlash reflects broader tensions over language, identity, and patriotism in American pop culture, with some conservatives arguing that the Super Bowl halftime should feature English-language performances that align with traditional American values.
In response, the NFL has firmly defended its decision, with Commissioner Roger Goodell stating in October 2025 that Bad Bunny’s selection was “carefully thought through.” The league emphasized his global appeal and record-breaking achievements, including being the first Latin artist to have 100 career hits on the Billboard Hot 100. Despite the political pressure, the NFL has not reconsidered the booking, highlighting the entertainment value and cultural significance of featuring a diverse artist on one of the world’s largest stages.
The TPUSA alternative show features Kid Rock as the headliner, alongside Brantley Gilbert, Lee Brice, and Gabby Barrett. Kid Rock, a vocal Trump supporter, described the effort as a “David and Goliath” battle against the “pro football machine and a global pop superstar.” The performers are known for their patriotic themes and country music backgrounds, appealing to a demographic that feels alienated by Bad Bunny’s style and message. The event is marketed as family-friendly entertainment with “no agenda other than to celebrate faith, family, and freedom.”
This rivalry extends beyond music into a symbolic culture war, with both sides leveraging social media and media platforms to reach audiences. TPUSA’s show will be available on conservative networks like Daily Wire+ and OAN, while Bad Bunny’s performance will be broadcast on NBC to millions worldwide. The split viewership underscores how the Super Bowl, once a unifying national event, has become a flashpoint for political and cultural debates in a polarized America.
Looking ahead, the aftermath of these competing halftime shows could influence future NFL decisions and entertainment choices. The controversy has sparked discussions about inclusion, free expression, and the role of politics in sports. As the event unfolds on February 8, 2026, it will test the boundaries of cultural acceptance and the power of entertainment to bridge or deepen societal divides.
