On Sunday, September 21, nearly 90,000 people gathered at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, to honor the life of conservative commentator and Turning Point USA CEO Charlie Kirk.
The public memorial service drew attendees from across the country. Although the stadium’s official capacity is around 70,000, reports suggest that additional seating and standing room accommodations helped expand attendance for the massive tribute.
The service was one of the largest memorial gatherings ever held for a private citizen in U.S. history.
Brittany Aldean Says She Has Been Forever Changed By The Memorial
Jason Aldean’s wife, Brittany, opened up on social media about the service, saying it was like nothing she has ever witnessed before.
“I expected to go in there and cry hysterically the whole time,” Brittany shared.
Instead, she said she left extremely moved and inspired to “live like Charlie.”
“…his legacy was so large, and he had a different purpose in life — it was just so good to hear people say that,” she continued. “There was just a different plan that was greater for him, that God knew.”
Brittany said Charlie’s life has made such tremendous impact, sparking a revival back to faith for so many.
“I knew he had impacted a ton of people, but this does just feel different, his death does,” she continued. “Everyone said at the service: [It’s] a revival. It’s putting so many people in touch with their faith and making a difference in so many lives.”
Top Leaders Speak At The Historic Service
Charlie’s memorial service lasted nearly five hours, featuring heartfelt tributes from family, friends, and colleagues who spoke about his life, legacy, and impact.
The event also included a series of musical performances in his honor. Christian artists Brandon Lake, Chris Tomlin, and Phil Wickham took the stage throughout the day, leading worship and reflection. Country legend Lee Greenwood also performed his iconic song, “God Bless the U.S.A.,” as part of the celebration of life.
One of the most powerful moments for many at the service came from Charlie’s widow, Erika. She took the stage to deliver a nearly 30-minute eulogy for her husband.
During her speech, Erika told those who were watching that she had forgiven her husband’s killer.
“That man, that young man, I forgive him,” she said, in tears. “I forgive him because it was what Christ did and it is what Charlie would do.”
Watch a clip of the celebration for Charlie Kirk below.
