Donald Trump said of the NFL’s selection of Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny as headline performer for the Super Bowl LX halftime show, “I think it’s a terrible choice. All it does is sow hatred. Terrible,” and decided not to attend the event just one year after becoming the first sitting President to attend a Super Bowl.
Even under the increased scrutiny, the league stood by its initial decision.
“Bad Bunny represents the global energy and cultural vibrancy that define today’s music scene. As one of the most influential and streamed artists in the world, his unique ability to bridge genres, languages, and audiences makes him an exciting and natural choice to take the Super Bowl halftime stage,” said Jon Baker, the SVP of Global Event Production for the NFL.
“We know his dynamic performances, creative vision, and deep connection with fans will deliver the kind of unforgettable experience we’ve come to expect from this iconic cultural moment.”
Led by CEO Erika Kirk, Turning Point USA put on its own halftime show in response to the NFL’s selection of Bad Bunny, tabbing Kid Roc, a public Trump supporter, as the headliner for the event. In an unfortunate turn for Kirk, TPUSA, and Kid Rock, the Puppy Bowl outperformed TPUSA’s event with 15.3 million viewers.
The Puppy Bowl even had the TPUSA halftime show beat before reaching 15.3 million viewers, per Tim Hannan.
Even Trump himself didn’t tune in for the TPUSA show, electing instead to watch Bad Bunny’s performance.
Still, in light of the dissapointing viewership, especially from the president, Kirk revealed that she was proud of what was put out, and also that her late husband, Charlie, would’ve been too.
“The (TPUSA) All-American Halftime Show was so incredible,” she wrote on Twitter. “Charlie would’ve absolutely loved it. Thank you to the millions that tuned in. I’m so proud of our entire team, staff, and the artists who believed in the vision and mission… Ultimately, this is what it’s all about, making Heaven crowded. …I love you Charlie baby, this is all for you.”
It’ll be interesting if an alternate halftime show becomes an annual feature for TPUSA.
About Qwame Skinner
Qwame Skinner has loved both writing and sports his entire life. In addition to his sports coverage at Comeback Media, Qwame writes novels, and his debut; The First Casualty, an adult fantasy, is out now.