Stephen Colbert’s monologue on his Late Show recently took a playful jab at the upcoming Super Bowl and the alternative halftime show featuring Kid Rock. Colbert humorously quipped about Kid Rock’s lineup, which includes country stars Brantley Gilbert, Gabby Barrett, and Lee Brice. “If you want to skip Bad Bunny’s performance, you can tune in to what they’re calling the All American Halftime Show,” he said.
Interestingly, Colbert pointed out that no one could actually attend this alternative show yet, as the venue remains “unclear.” He joked, “That seems fitting, given that Kid Rock often forgets what venue he’s in.” Instead, viewers will find the show streaming on platforms like TBN and Rumble. To add a comedic twist, Colbert joked about negotiations with fictitious platforms like “Crunch” and “Crumble,” poking fun at his own network.
Colbert also highlighted the backlash against Bad Bunny, who was met with outrage from some conservative circles. The Puerto Rican artist had previously avoided touring in the U.S. due to fears of ICE raiding the venues. “He’s just looking out for his fans,” Colbert said, calling attention to Bad Bunny’s concerns.
In a poignant moment, Colbert reminded the audience that Bad Bunny is, indeed, an American. “Anyone who thinks it’s un-American to have an American perform at the Super Bowl is just wrong,” he said while playing a clip of Bad Bunny chuckling.
Kid Rock’s halftime show comes from Turning Point USA, a conservative group. In their statement, Kid Rock, a long-time supporter of Donald Trump, said, “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?”
This alternative show emerged amidst a broader conservative backlash against Bad Bunny’s selection. Critics express annoyance not only because he sings in Spanish but also due to his outspoken opposition to ICE and Trump’s immigration policies. The tension illustrates a divide in the cultural landscape, reflecting a growing polarization where even a sports event becomes a platform for political expression.
In the grander context, this highlights how entertainment has become a battleground for cultural and political debates in America. Past halftime shows have also been mired in controversy, such as when Shakira and Jennifer Lopez performed, drawing both praise and criticism. As audiences increasingly seek representation in media, events like the Super Bowl become key moments for cultural reflection and discontent.
This is a trend to watch, as the intersection of sports and politics continues to evolve, offering insights into both audience preferences and societal values. As Colbert put it, everything is fair game when it comes to building a conversation around who gets the spotlight — be it on the field or in the music arena.
Source link
Bad Bunny,Kid Rock,MAGA,Stephen Colbert,Super Bowl,Super Bowl 2026
