Turning Point USA’s “All-American Halftime Show” took a moment to pay tribute to founder Charlie Kirk on Sunday as Kid Rock wrapped up one of his songs during the performance.

Kid Rock was the finale for the show that saw Lee Brice, Gabby Barrett and Brantley Gilbert sing. As he was wrapping up one of his songs, photos of Kirk, his wife Erika and their children were seen on the video boards that surrounded the stage.

 

Charlie Kirk in October 2024.

Charlie Kirk was a conservative activist who led Turning Point USA. (Alex Brandon/The Associated Press)

“In remembrance of Charlie Kirk,” was emblazoned across the photos 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 against the Super Bowl LX halftime show that featured Bad Bunny.

“This is real American,” Gilbert said to start the show as he wore a “God, family country” T-shirt.

The livestream on YouTube garnered more than 4.8 million viewers before the show was finished. War Department Secretary Pete Hegseth also made clear that he and his family were watching the event.

 

Kid Rock performs at Republican National Convention.

Musician Kid Rock performs on the fourth day of the Republican National Convention at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on July 18, 2024. (Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)

 

“’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 news release before the program.

“We set out to provide an entertainment option that will be fun, excellent and exciting for the entire family while millions are gathered together for the big game. These performers will deliver exactly that, and we can’t wait to watch the incredible show they’re about to put on. We know millions around the country will be watching 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 my living writing songs,” he said in a statement.

Brantley Gilbert at Sonoma Raceway

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 am proud of the choice I’ve made to live in another direction.

 

“I share my story through my music in hopes that it may help and inspire others in their darkest hour. I’m a Christian, and I love our country despite its flaws. I’ve dedicated part of my life to the men and women who fight for it and the families of those who gave their life for it. Above all, I’m a proud husband and father of three.”