Colbert Roasts MAGA Halftime Show Lineup | The Daily Show

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Right-Wing Backlash Prompts Alternative Super Bowl Halftime Show

A conservative-led effort to counterprogram the Super Bowl halftime show, headlined by Grammy-winning artist Bad Bunny, has culminated in the creation of an alternative event featuring Kid Rock and other country musicians. The move, widely mocked by late-night host Stephen Colbert, underscores the growing cultural and political divisions surrounding major American events.

The official Super Bowl halftime show, set for this Sunday in Santa clara, California, will feature the Puerto Rican rapper, who recently made history at the 68th Grammy Awards. During his acceptance speech, Bad Bunny notably stated, “Before I say thanks to God, I’m going to say, ICE out.”

Conservative Counterprogramming Takes shape

In response to the selection of Bad Bunny, Turning Point USA (TPUSA), the nonprofit founded by the late conservative influencer Charlie Kirk and now led by his widow Erika, announced in October its intention to host a competing event. This week,TPUSA revealed the lineup for its “All American Halftime Show,” spearheaded by Kid Rock.

“If you’d rather not watch a bad bunny,” Colbert quipped on his show,”there’s going to be a competing halftime show featuring a terrible bunny becuase,in protest,a conservative group is staging an alternative halftime show starring Kid Rock.”

Did you know? – The Super Bowl halftime show has evolved from marching bands and elaborate stage productions to featuring globally recognized pop and hip-hop artists, reflecting changing musical tastes.

A Lineup of Trump Supporters

the “All American Halftime Show” will also feature country artists Brantley Gilbert, Lee Brice, and Gabby Barrett.Kid Rock, 54, has been a vocal supporter of Donald Trump for years, even performing at the 2024 Republican National Convention on its final night. He is also known to be a golfing partner of the former president and an occasional visitor to the Oval Office.

Colbert seized the chance to ridicule the performers,sarcastically describing the lineup as a “powerhouse.” He then proceeded to list a series of fabricated names – “Gary Lee grant, Gilby Brantlet, Dilly Barrett, Tandy Breitbart, Billy Gidley, and Baby Bilbo” – to further emphasize his point.

Pro tip – Political endorsements from musicians can substantially impact their public image and fan base, sometimes leading to boycotts or increased support.

Logistical Challenges and Political Endorsements

The alternative event faces logistical hurdles, as the venue remains unconfirmed. Colbert joked that this was fitting, given Kid Rock’s sometimes-unpredictable whereabouts. The event will be streamed on platforms including TBN, DW+, Charge, and Rumble.

TPUSA has branded the event as “a unique, patriotic event proudly celebrating American culture, freedom, and faith.” The lineup has received endorsements from within the current administration, with one official, Vice President JD Vance, calling the musicians “fantastic.”

Reader question – Counterprogramming events like this are often intended to appeal to a specific demographic and reinforce existing political beliefs, rather than convert new audiences.

Trump’s Disapproval and Broader Cultural Clash

The controversy extends to former President Trump himself, who publicly criticized the Super Bowl’s performer choices, stating he would skip the game. A report from Zeteo suggested, however, that aides advised him against attending due to the likelihood of being booed in California.

Adding another layer to the cultural clash,punk rockers Green Day,known for their criticism of Trump,are scheduled to perform during the Super Bowl’s opening ceremony. Bad Bunny‘s selection as the 2026 halftime show performer initially sparked the outrage that