Picture this: the Super Bowl, America's biggest sporting spectacle, turning into a battleground for cultural clashes right in the middle of halftime. That's the electrifying reality unfolding as Turning Point USA steps up with their own show to challenge the NFL's pick of Bad Bunny. But here's where it gets controversial – is this a patriotic stand or just another wedge in our divided society? Stick around, because there's more to unpack than you might think.
Turning Point USA, the influential group established by the late conservative activist Charlie Kirk, made waves on social media by revealing plans for an alternative halftime event on February 8, 2026. This comes as a direct response to the NFL's decision to feature Bad Bunny, the global music sensation, in the official Super Bowl LX halftime performance at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
In the promotional flyer they posted online (accessible via https://x.com/tpusa/status/1976301627662340207?s=46&t=nPw3J2vJUde9H99fKXoF1w), Turning Point USA dubs their initiative 'The All-American Halftime Show,' a celebration of 'faith, family, and freedom.' It promises that additional details about performers and the lineup will be shared soon. This announcement follows the passing of Charlie Kirk last month, after which his wife, Erika Kirk, took over as CEO of the organization (as reported in https://www.cnn.com/2025/09/18/politics/erika-kirk-turning-point-ceo).
For those curious about the event, the dedicated website (https://www.americanhalftimeshow.com/) features a simple sign-up form. Beyond basic personal details, it asks just one key question: 'What music genres would you like to see featured?' The choices range from 'Anything in English' to Americana, Classic Rock, Country, Hip Hop, Pop, and Worship. This setup allows fans to voice their preferences, making it feel inclusive and interactive – a smart way to build excitement for what's to come.
The NFL's reveal of Bad Bunny as the halftime star, announced nearly two weeks ago (covered in https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6671870/2025/09/28/bad-bunny-super-bowl-halftime-show/), has ignited fierce debates. As one of the world's top artists, Bad Bunny boasts a massive following, with backing from supporters who see his selection – orchestrated by the NFL alongside Apple Music and Roc Nation, the company founded by Jay-Z – as a fresh, inclusive choice. Yet, not everyone is on board. Critics, including former President Donald Trump, have expressed strong disapproval (as detailed in https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6697371/2025/10/07/donald-trump-bad-bunny-super-bowl-halftime/).
In a recent interview, Trump voiced his confusion, saying, 'I don’t know who he is. I don’t know why they’re doing it — it’s, like, crazy. They blame it on some promoter they hired to pick up entertainment. I think it’s absolutely ridiculous.' This reaction highlights the deep divides in public opinion, where cultural choices at major events can feel like political statements.
And this is the part most people miss – the backstory adds layers to the controversy. Bad Bunny, whose music is predominantly in Spanish, has been vocal about his opposition to the Trump administration's immigration policies (explored in https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/music/2025/07/04/bad-bunny-immigration-comments-donald-trump-nuevayol-video/84472521007/). He even skipped U.S. mainland stops on his recent world tour, fearing raids by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at venues. Just days after his Super Bowl announcement, a Trump administration official confirmed ICE agents would be present at the game, emphasizing enforcement.
'There is nowhere that you can provide safe haven to people who are in this country illegally. Not the Super Bowl, and nowhere else,' stated Corey Lewandowski, chief adviser to Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, during an appearance on 'The Benny Show' (available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EY4Zdsm3Zp8), hosted by conservative podcaster Benny Johnson. 'We will find you. We will apprehend you. We will put you in a detention facility, and we will deport you.' This stance underscores the tension, blending sports entertainment with immigration debates – a mix that's sure to fuel discussions.
For beginners wondering what all this means, Super Bowl halftime counterprogramming isn't new; it's a tradition where alternative shows air during the big game to attract viewers who might tune out the main event. Think of it as a clever marketing ploy or a way to offer something different. For instance, Animal Planet has hosted 21 Puppy Bowls since 2005, including one during this year's Super Bowl, along with Kitten Bowls, Fish Bowls, and more on various platforms. Pay-per-view options have also featured counterprogramming, showing how this strategy has evolved to cater to diverse tastes (learn more at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SuperBowlcounterprogramming).
Dated October 9, 2025.
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What do you think – is Turning Point USA's counter-show a bold defense of American values, or does it risk alienating fans and deepening divides? Could Bad Bunny's selection be a step toward more diverse representation in sports entertainment, or is it unfairly politicized? Share your thoughts in the comments – do you agree with Trump's take, or see it differently? Let's discuss!
