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In a striking display of the current cultural divide, Turning Point USA’s “All-American Halftime Show” managed to attract an audience of around 5 million viewers—far fewer than the 128 million who tuned in to watch Bad Bunny’s electrifying performance during the Super Bowl. The contrasting viewership numbers underscore a growing rift in American entertainment preferences, particularly among politically aligned audiences.
A Clash of Cultures on Super Bowl Sunday
The event hosted by Turning Point USA, a group known for its conservative leanings and founded by the late commentator Charlie Kirk, was designed to cater specifically to what they termed “underserved” Americans. The show featured performances from Kid Rock and country artists Brantley Gilbert, Lee Brice, and Gabby Barrett, all of whom aimed to celebrate patriotism in a climate where they feel their values are underrepresented in mainstream media.
While the conservative programme aired simultaneously with Bad Bunny’s much-anticipated set, it struggled to capture the attention of the broader audience. The peak viewership for Turning Point USA’s show was estimated at 5.7 million on YouTube, with some reports suggesting figures might have reached as high as 6.2 million. In the days following the event, the show has garnered a total of 18 million views, largely due to curiosity from those who clicked on it after the Super Bowl concluded.
The Mainstream Favourite: Bad Bunny
In stark contrast, Bad Bunny’s halftime performance, featuring surprise guests such as Lady Gaga and Pedro Pascal, has been hailed as one of the most-watched shows in Super Bowl history. The Puerto Rican artist’s set is projected to reach around 128 million viewers, rivalling the record of 133.5 million set by Kendrick Lamar in 2025. This overwhelming response reflects not just Bad Bunny’s star power but also a shift towards more inclusive representation in entertainment.
Even in the face of criticism from high-profile figures like former President Trump—who labelled the official halftime show “absolutely terrible”—the enthusiasm for Bad Bunny’s performance remained unwavering. A recent YouGov America survey revealed that 35 percent of respondents preferred Bad Bunny’s show over the 28 percent who opted for the Turning Point event.
Turning Point’s Mission and Reception
The genesis of Turning Point USA’s halftime show stems from a backlash against Bad Bunny’s selection as the Super Bowl performer, with many conservative figures arguing that their values are overlooked by mainstream entertainment. Kid Rock articulated this sentiment, stating, “There’s a big portion of this country, like it or not, that’s underserved entertainment-wise.”
The White House even expressed its support for Turning Point’s initiative. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth shared that his family watched the show, while Trump took to Truth Social to voice his disapproval of mainstream performances. Despite this backing, however, the numbers suggest a lack of engagement from the wider public when compared to Bad Bunny’s spectacle.
Why it Matters
The contrasting viewership figures illuminate a significant cultural and political schism in the United States. While Turning Point USA aimed to create a platform for conservative voices, the overwhelming success of Bad Bunny’s performance highlights a growing appetite for diverse and inclusive entertainment that resonates with a broader audience. As the nation grapples with its identity and values, these events serve as a microcosm of a deeper societal divide, challenging the notion of who is truly represented in American culture.
