Key Highlights
- Cory Asbury and Forrest Frank announced they will not participate in TPUSA’s “alternative” Super Bowl halftime show due to incompatible visions.
- The two artists had previously proposed a faith-based “Jesus Bowl” event as an alternative to the Apple Music Super Bowl halftime show featuring Bad Bunny.
- Turning Point USA, led by Charlie Kirk, announced its own “alternative halftime show,” leading some to believe Asbury and Frank’s proposal was linked.
- The artists plan to continue their show independently and are seeking donors and sponsors for their event, which they estimate will cost millions of dollars.
Background on the Super Bowl Halftime Show Controversy
In recent months, discussions surrounding the upcoming 2026 Apple Music Super Bowl halftime show have sparked debate and controversy. The event, headlined by Puerto Rican artist Bad Bunny, has drawn criticism from conservative groups for the inclusion of sexually explicit content in his music.
The Proposal for a Faith-Based Alternative
Amid these discussions, Christian worship artists Cory Asbury and Forrest Frank proposed an alternative faith-based “Jesus Bowl” event. The idea was to create a separate halftime show that would focus on glorifying Jesus and offering a more family-friendly experience during the Super Bowl.
The Decision Not to Participate
Despite the initial excitement, Asbury and Frank have now announced they will not be joining TPUSA’s proposed “alternative” Super Bowl halftime show. In a video posted on social media, Asbury explained their decision:
“In the spirit of unity, Forrest and I jumped on a call with their team. But at the end of the day, the two visions are just incompatible.”
Asbury’s Vision for an Inclusive Jesus Moment
The “Reckless Love” singer elaborated on his vision:
“We want this to be a Jesus moment. We’re glorifying the name of Jesus, worshiping, praying. I almost see it like a Billy Graham crusade, a call to the altar, mass salvation across the nation.”
Asbury’s goal is to create an event that contrasts with what he sees as the “raunchy” nature of traditional Super Bowl halftime shows. He believes a faith-based alternative can provide a positive influence:
“What if we threw together an alternate show at a different venue with just the biggest Christian artists and glorified the name of Jesus on a gigantic scale?”
Future Plans for Asbury and Frank’s Event
In addition to their decision not to participate in TPUSA’s event, Asbury and Frank plan to continue with their proposed show independently. They are actively seeking donors and sponsors who share their vision:
“This is going to cost legitimately millions of dollars,” said Asbury. “Forrest and I are not taking a dime from this. This isn’t a get-rich-quick scheme.
It’s simply offering something to the nation and to the Lord.”
The two artists have expressed their determination to make their vision a reality, despite the challenges they face:
“We’re going to blow it up huge,” Asbury added. “Let’s get a stadium. Let’s go crazy while people are glorifying money and fame and sex and all kinds of stuff that we don’t want to see. We can lift up the name of Jesus.”
Reactions and Implications
The decision not to participate in TPUSA’s event has drawn attention from both supporters and critics. Some, like House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., have voiced their displeasure with Bad Bunny’s presence:
“I didn’t even know who Bad Bunny was, but it sounds like a terrible decision in my view,” he said. “Well, it sounds like he’s not someone who appeals to a broader audience. And I think there’s so many eyes on the Super Bowl.
A lot of young, impressionable children. And I think, in my view, you would have Lee Greenwood or role models doing that.”
The controversy surrounding the Super Bowl halftime show continues to evolve, reflecting broader discussions about inclusivity and cultural values in mainstream entertainment.
