This Super Bowl Sunday featured two competing halftime spectacles. While the Seattle Seahawks defeated the New England Patriots, a cultural rivalry unfolded off the field.
The NFL’s official show starred Bad Bunny. Simultaneously, the conservative group Turning Point USA livestreamed its “All-American Halftime Show.”
This alternative event featured country and rock artists like Brantley Gilbert and Gabby Barrett. It positioned itself as a cultural counterpoint to the mainstream NFL production.
The stream closed with Kid Rock, whose performance quickly drew accusations online. Many social media users questioned if he was lip-syncing, noting apparent disconnects between his movements and the vocals.
Older controversies involving Kid Rock also resurfaced. Critics shared lyrics from his 2001 song “Cool, Daddy Cool” and a clip from a 2001 SNL appearance, condemning the material as offensive.
Supporters, however, praised the performance and the event’s concept. They enjoyed the music and appreciated an alternative for audiences feeling overlooked by mainstream entertainment.
The dual shows highlighted a deep cultural divide, intertwining entertainment and politics. Whether viewers chose Bad Bunny or the alternative stream, the conversation reached far beyond football.
