Country music artist Zach Bryan has launched a scathing critique of Turning Point USA's decision to stage a competing Super Bowl halftime show headlined by Kid Rock, directly opposing the official performance by Bad Bunny. The 29-year-old singer-songwriter, a U.S. Navy veteran, took to his Instagram Stories on Monday to express his disdain, labelling the event as "embarrassing as hell" before later removing the post.
Bryan's Blunt Criticism of the Rival Event
In his statement, which was captured by multiple media outlets prior to deletion, Bryan declared, "I don't care what side you're on. A bunch of adults throwing temper tantrums and their own halftime show is embarrassing as hell and the most cringe s*** on the planet." This public rebuke highlights the singer's frustration with what he perceives as a divisive and unnecessary counter-programming effort during one of America's most-watched sporting events.
Social Media Exchanges and Irony Noted
During the actual broadcasts on Sunday, Bryan had already made his feelings known through social media. He shared an Instagram story depicting a person covering Bad Bunny's television performance with their hand while simultaneously watching Kid Rock's show on a phone, captioned, "What Kid Rock actually thinks is happening across America." Reflecting on the backlash to his comments, Bryan later remarked on the irony, stating, "Bro the irony in how upset a bunch of middle aged douchebags are in my DM’s this morning hahahahah."
Background of the Competing Halftime Shows
Kid Rock, aged 55, had previously issued a statement about the Turning Point USA event, asserting, "We plan to play great songs for folks who love America. We're approaching this show like David and Goliath. Competing with the pro football machine and a global pop superstar is almost impossible … or is it?" He also commented on Bad Bunny's performance, noting, "He's said he's having a dance party, wearing a dress, and singing in Spanish? Cool. We plan to play great songs for folks who love America."
Meanwhile, Zach Bryan was actively involved in Super Bowl festivities this year, stepping in as a replacement for expectant father Luke Combs at a Madden Bowl concert held at San Francisco's Chase Center. His set notably included a musical cameo from NFL superstar Christian McCaffrey, who showcased his piano-playing skills.
Turning Point USA's Response and Bryan's Political Stances
Turning Point USA spokesperson Andrew Kolvet described Sunday's show, which also featured performers like Brantley Gilbert, Lee Brice, and Gabby Barrett, as a "massive success" in an interview with Fox News on Monday. However, Bryan's criticism adds to his history of occasionally engaging with political issues. In July 2024, he made headlines for supportive comments about President Donald Trump following an assassination attempt, writing, "I don't support Trump or Biden but the man got shot in the ear, head... and then fist bumped in the air. That is sick, dude!"
Bryan was photographed with Trump at last year's Super Bowl, and he further raised eyebrows last fall with the release of his track "Bad News," which takes direct aim at Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The song includes lyrics such as, "And ICE is gonna come, bust down your door / Try to build a house no one builds no more / But I got a telephone / Kids are all scared and all alone," and continues with, "The middle finger’s rising, and it won’t stop showing/ Got some bad news/ The fading of the red, white and blue."
