Charlie Kirk’s ‘Turning Point USA’. What to expect?

The Apple Music Super Bowl LX Halftime Show on Feb. 8, 2026, features Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny in a groundbreaking solo performance that marks the first time a primarily Spanish-language artist headlines the event, drawing massive anticipation alongside sharp cultural and political backlash that prompted Turning Point USA to launch a competing “All-American Halftime Show” featuring Kid Rock, Brantley Gilbert, Lee Brice and Gabby Barrett.

Bad Bunny, born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, takes the stage at Levi’s Stadium during the New England Patriots-Seattle Seahawks matchup, following his historic Grammy win for Album of the Year for “DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS” — the first for a Latino artist. The 31-year-old reggaeton and Latin trap icon, Spotify’s most-streamed artist globally in 2025, promises a high-energy spectacle blending his hits with Puerto Rican cultural elements, potentially including surprise guests and elaborate staging.

The NFL, Apple Music and Roc Nation announced Bad Bunny as headliner in September 2025 during a Sunday Night Football broadcast. His selection represents a milestone for Latin music representation on one of television’s largest stages, with expectations of record viewership among diverse audiences. Previews and trailers emphasize joy, unity and dance, with Bad Bunny teasing a performance that celebrates his roots while appealing globally.

The show runs approximately 13-15 minutes, timed to the traditional halftime break around 8 p.m. ET. Bad Bunny’s setlist remains closely guarded, but analysts predict staples like “Tití Me Preguntó,” “Moscow Mule,” “Dákiti” and tracks from his latest album, mixed with high-production visuals, choreography and possibly bilingual elements. His press conference in San Francisco highlighted his journey from Puerto Rico to global stardom, with collaborators Ebro Darden and Zane Lowe joining for reflections.

The performance has sparked controversy, particularly from conservative circles criticizing the choice of a Spanish-language artist and Bad Bunny’s past activism on issues like immigration. President Donald Trump and allies questioned his popularity and “American” appeal, fueling online debates about language and cultural representation in mainstream events. Some backlash focused on perceptions of division, though supporters hailed it as progress for inclusivity, noting previous Hispanic performers in group acts or features.

In response, Turning Point USA — the conservative youth organization founded by the late Charlie Kirk — announced its “All-American Halftime Show” as direct counterprogramming. The event, rooted in Kirk’s long-standing critiques of mainstream entertainment, features country and rock acts aligned with patriotic and traditional values. Kid Rock headlines, joined by Brantley Gilbert, Lee Brice and Gabby Barrett, with performances emphasizing faith, family and freedom.

TPUSA promoted the show as a “celebration” of American ideals, streaming live on its YouTube, X and Rumble channels around the same halftime window. Organizers described it as organic evolution from Kirk’s advocacy, with spokesperson Andrew Kolvet noting it honors the founder’s vision. The lineup draws from country music’s conservative-leaning fanbase, with artists like Kid Rock — a vocal Trump supporter — bringing high-energy anthems.

The parallel events highlight deepening cultural divides, with Bad Bunny’s show poised for broad, international appeal and TPUSA’s targeting niche audiences seeking alternatives. Viewers can choose: NBC/Peacock for the official halftime or TPUSA platforms for the counter-show. Some may flip channels or multitask, amplifying the “clash” narrative in media coverage.

Bad Bunny’s historic role underscores Latin music’s mainstream rise, potentially setting records for non-English performances. His trailer emphasized unity and dance, countering critics with messages of love. TPUSA’s event, meanwhile, positions itself as pro-American counterbalance, with artists performing hits that resonate with themes of patriotism and tradition.

As Super Bowl Sunday unfolds, the halftime slot — traditionally a unifying cultural moment — splits into contrasting visions: Bad Bunny’s vibrant, global Latin fusion versus TPUSA’s country-rock celebration of American roots. The juxtaposition reflects broader societal tensions over identity, language and entertainment in polarized times.

Fans anticipate Bad Bunny breaking viewing records, while TPUSA’s stream draws dedicated followers. Regardless of preference, the dual shows ensure halftime remains appointment viewing in 2026.