When it comes to Super Bowl LX, the halftime spotlight was shared in a way that few expected — and fans are still debating who truly performed better: Bad Bunny, the official Apple Music Halftime Show headliner, or Kid Rock, whose rival “All-American Halftime Show” struck a chord with a very different audience.
Bad Bunny’s official halftime set lit up Levi’s Stadium with a historic performance centered on Latin culture, unity, and celebration. The Puerto Rican superstar became the first artist to headline the show entirely in Spanish, bringing out surprise guests like Lady Gaga and Ricky Martin and closing with a powerful message of togetherness that had fans buzzing long after the final note. Critics and supporters praised the vibrant set, inclusive themes, and cultural pride showcased on the NFL’s biggest stage.
Viewers on social media weren’t shy about their praise either, with many tweeting that Bad Bunny “slayed the halftime show” and brought artistic and energetic performances that resonated far beyond the football field.
But the story didn’t end there.
In response to political backlash against Bad Bunny’s selection — including criticism from figures like Donald Trump — a counter-programming halftime event was staged by Turning Point USA, headlined by Kid Rock and backed by conservative artists. This alternative show reportedly attracted millions of viewers who felt underserved by the official halftime lineup and craved a more “traditional American rock” vibe.
Yet not all reviews of that alternative set were positive. Critics of Kid Rock’s performance called it less polished, with weak moments like poor lip-synching and a small crowd compared to the gargantuan Super Bowl audience.
So what does the data actually say?
🎤 Bad Bunny wins in cultural impact and mainstream engagement.
He dominated the official halftime show conversation, trended worldwide, and generated viral moments both in performance and social commentary — moments that will be remembered in Super Bowl history.
🎸 Kid Rock wins a niche audience and political conversation.
While not officially part of the NFL broadcast, his performance sparked its own fanbase and chatter, especially among viewers seeking a country-rock, America-centric alternative.
The bottom line:
Bad Bunny’s halftime show is widely viewed as the definitive Super Bowl performance of 2026, thanks to remarkable cultural reach, memorable staging, and enthusiastic fan reaction — while Kid Rock’s event carved out a surprising secondary moment that kept the larger conversation alive. The debate continues, but in terms of sheer impact and reach, Bad Bunny takes the crown.
