The internet is abuzz after Kid Rock’s latest stunt, where he shot up cases of Bud Light in a dramatic protest against the beer giant Anheuser-Busch.
The 52-year-old singer posted a video on Twitter, where he picked up a semi-automatic rifle and shot several cases of Bud Light on a table. He then flipped the bird at the camera, saying, “F–k Bud Light, and f–k Anheuser-Busch.” Rock’s video received more than 8 million views on Twitter and has garnered a mixed response from the public.
— KidRock (@KidRock) April 4, 2023
Rock’s protest is believed to be in response to Anheuser-Busch’s decision to team up with transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney. The company produced personalized cans with Mulvaney’s face and a message congratulating a year of “womanhood.” Mulvaney has recently come under fire for her divisive views on social media, and Rock’s protest is being seen by many as a shot at Anheuser-Busch’s decision to align themselves with her.
While Rock did not mention Mulvaney in his video, viewers acknowledged that it was a clear shot at Anheuser-Busch’s decision. He received a lot of support from his followers, who flooded his comments section with messages of encouragement. Author Nick Adams even thanked Rock for joining the boycott, which he initiated earlier in the day outside Anheuser-Busch’s Texas facility.
However, some critics are ridiculing Rock for his over-the-top reaction, pointing out that he had to buy the cases of Bud Light to shoot them. Actor Damon Gonzalez even told him, “You are supposed to drink beer, not shoot it.” Some are also questioning why Rock seems to be triggered by trans folks, and why he thinks that irresponsible actions like this glorify gun violence.
Amid the backlash, Anheuser-Busch has stood by its decision to celebrate Mulvaney’s “365 days of womanhood.” A spokesperson for the company said that they work with hundreds of influencers across their brands as one of many ways to authentically connect with audiences across various demographics and passion points. The personalized can was a gift to celebrate a personal milestone and is not for sale to the general public.
Rock’s protest highlights the power of social media and the influence it can have on brands and public opinion. While some see his actions as a bold statement against perceived injustice, others see it as an overreaction to a minor issue. Either way, it has sparked a lively conversation about the intersection of politics, social media, and consumer culture.