A counter-programming event is taking shape, directly responding to the announced performer for the 2026 Super Bowl halftime show. After months of secrecy, the lineup for the “All-American Halftime Show” has finally been revealed, promising a distinctly different tone than its mainstream counterpart.
Headlining the event is Kid Rock, a musician known for his outspoken views and strong support of former President Donald Trump. Joining him will be Brantley Gilbert, a prominent figure in country rock, alongside country artists Lee Brice and Gabby Barrett, creating a roster steeped in American musical traditions.
The announcement arrives after considerable debate surrounding the Super Bowl’s choice of Bad Bunny, whose on-stage commentary regarding Immigration and Customs Enforcement sparked controversy. This alternative show appears designed to appeal to a different segment of the audience, one that feels underrepresented by the mainstream selection.
Kid Rock’s connection to the political sphere runs deep; his song “American Rock ‘n Roll” was prominently featured in a 2024 campaign advertisement for Donald Trump. He even received a signed executive order from the former president addressing ticket scalping, a testament to their close relationship.
This isn’t a one-off collaboration for Kid Rock and Brantley Gilbert. Both artists are also scheduled to participate in the “Rock the Country” tour, a concert series that has been bringing music to smaller communities across the United States since 2024.
Former President Trump himself publicly expressed his disapproval of the Super Bowl’s entertainment choices, citing both Bad Bunny and Green Day as reasons he would not attend another game. He became the first sitting president to attend a Super Bowl last year, but now seems to be drawing a line in the sand.
The 2026 Super Bowl will pit the Seattle Seahawks against the New England Patriots at Levi Stadium in Santa Clara, California. The game is scheduled to kick off at 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, with the “All-American Halftime Show” poised to offer a contrasting experience for those seeking a different kind of entertainment.
