Phoenix, Arizona — In a move no one saw coming, Turning Point USA — now led by Erika Kirk, widow of the late conservative figure Charlie Kirk — announced the launch of “The All American Halftime Show,” a live event set to air the same weekend as Super Bowl 60.

But the real shock came moments later: the surprise headliner will be none other than Brandon Lake, the Grammy-winning Christian worship artist known for hits like “Gratitude,” “Praise You Anywhere,” and “Tear Off the Roof.”

The announcement has already sent shockwaves through entertainment and political circles alike — hailed by some as “a revival of true American spirit,” and slammed by others as “a blatant political stunt.”

A New Era for Turning Point USA

Since Charlie Kirk’s unexpected passing last year, many wondered what direction Turning Point USA would take.

Now, Erika Kirk — once known for her quiet philanthropy and advocacy for mental health — has stepped into leadership with what she calls a “redemptive vision.”

“We want to unite people through truth, faith, and freedom — not politics,” Erika said in a brief statement.

“The All American Halftime Show is about reclaiming joy, community, and the values that make us who we are.”

The event is reportedly set to take place at the University of Phoenix Stadium — just one day before the Super Bowl — and will stream live across multiple platforms.

Brandon Lake’s Surprising Involvement

For Brandon Lake, the collaboration marks his first large-scale performance tied to a civic or cultural movement — and according to sources close to his team, it wasn’t a decision made lightly.

One insider told Billboard Faithwire:

“Brandon only agreed after he was assured the show would focus on redemption, healing, and unity, not politics. He specifically said, ‘If this is going to be about division, I’m out.’”

Lake reportedly requested that the show’s theme revolve around “The Great American Comeback” — celebrating stories of personal restoration and national hope.

He’s also rumored to be performing a new unreleased song titled “Let the Light In (America)”, written specifically for the event.

NFL Officials Are Reportedly “Fuming”

Inside sources say several NFL executives expressed frustration with the timing and messaging of Turning Point’s announcement, fearing the show could “distract from or undercut the official Super Bowl Halftime Show.”

One anonymous source allegedly told Variety:

“It feels like they’re trying to create a counterculture Super Bowl — and the league is not happy about it.”

But fans online seem divided.

Some are praising Lake’s involvement as a “breath of integrity” in entertainment, while others accuse Turning Point of “using faith for branding.”

On X (formerly Twitter), one viral post read:

“Brandon Lake leading a halftime show about redemption?

Finally, something worth watching before kickoff.”

Another countered:

“I love Brandon’s music, but this just feels… political.

Keep worship out of culture wars.”

Faith, Patriotism, and the Power of Story

Erika Kirk, however, insists the heart of the project is neither political nor performative.

In a brief Instagram Live session, she shared:

“This isn’t about sides. It’s about healing a divided nation through song, story, and faith.

If people want to call that controversial — so be it.”

Lake echoed that sentiment in his own post later that evening:

“I’m not here to perform for politics — I’m here to sing for people.

Redemption is bigger than division.

God still loves America — every part of it.”

A Cultural Collision in Real Time

The All American Halftime Show is scheduled for February 8, 2026 — the night before Super Bowl 60 in Las Vegas.

In just 24 hours, hashtags like #AllAmericanHalftime, #BrandonLake, and #FaithAndFreedom have dominated social media trends.

Critics say it risks deepening political rifts in entertainment; supporters see it as a long-overdue reset — a moment where patriotism meets prayer.

One editorial headline summed it up bluntly:

“If the Super Bowl is for show, this one’s for soul.”

Redemption as a Headline

Regardless of the controversy, one thing is clear:

Brandon Lake’s involvement ensures the event won’t be easily ignored.

And if early reports are true — that the show will feature real stories of veterans, first responders, and families overcoming addiction and loss — then The All American Halftime Show may do exactly what Lake and Kirk hope for:

turn spectacle into sincerity.

As Erika Kirk put it in her closing line during the press reveal:

“This isn’t about entertainment. It’s about a second chance — for all of us.”

Whether you see it as bold, risky, or redemptive — America will be watching.