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Turning Point USA’s “All-American Halftime Show” took a moment to pay tribute to founder Charlie Kirk on Sunday when Kid Rock finished one of his songs during the performance.
Kid Rock was the finale for the show which saw Lee Brice, Gabby Barrett and Brantley Gilbert sing. As he was finishing one of his songs, images of Kirk, his wife Erika and their children were seen on video boards surrounding the stage.
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Charlie Kirk was a conservative activist who led Turning Point USA. (Alex Brandon/The Associated Press)
“In memory of Charlie Kirk,” it said above the images as the broadcast played one of the conservative activist’s speeches. Kirk was assassinated in September during a speech on the campus of Utah Valley University.
The group delivered patriotic performances in what would counterprogram the Super Bowl LX halftime show that featured Bad Bunny.
“This is real American,” Gilbert said to start the show, wearing a “God, Family Country” T-shirt.
The live stream on YouTube got more than 4.8 million viewers before the show ended. War Department Secretary Pete Hegseth also made it clear that he and his family watched the event.
Musician Kid Rock performs on the fourth day of the Republican National Convention at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wis., on July 18, 2024. (Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)
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“‘The All-American Halftime Show’ is an opportunity for all Americans to enjoy a halftime show with no agenda other than to celebrate faith, family and freedom,” Turning Point USA’s Andrew Kolvet said in a pre-program press release.
“We set out to provide an entertainment option that will be fun, great and exciting for the whole family as millions gather for the big game. These artists will deliver just that, and we can’t wait to see the incredible show they’re about to put on. We know millions around the country will too.”
Gilbert revealed before the show why he was performing.
“I’m a songwriter who grew up and still lives in Jackson County, Georgia, whose goal in the music business was to sell out the local theater a few miles from my house and somehow make a living writing songs,” he said in a statement.
Brantley Gilbert performs for fans before the start of the NASCAR Toyota – Save Mart 350 race at Sonoma Raceway on June 12, 2022. (Stan Szeto/USA TODAY Sports)
“I’m a recovering addict with the history of all the bad choices that come with it. I’m not proud of those choices, but I’m proud of the choice I’ve made to live in a different direction.
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“I share my story through my music in hopes that it can help and inspire others in their darkest hour. I am a Christian and I love our country despite its flaws. I have dedicated part of my life to the men and women who fight for it and the families of those who gave their lives for it. Above all, I am a proud husband and father of three.”
