Kyle Rittenhouse Remembers Charlie Kirk: A Bond Beyond Politics
In a heartfelt conversation with Fox News Digital, Kyle Rittenhouse shared the profound impact Charlie Kirk had on his life as he joined thousands mourning the Turning Point USA founder at State Farm Arena in Glendale, Arizona. Their friendship began in 2021 during one of the most challenging periods of Rittenhouse’s life, when he faced homicide charges that thrust him into the national spotlight. Rittenhouse described the devastating moment he learned of Kirk’s assassination: “When Charlie was assassinated, I was on my lunch break at work. I just got home to let my dog out. And I went on X, and the first video I saw was my friend being murdered.” The news affected him so deeply that he immediately took the rest of the day off work, eventually extending his absence to a full week to process his grief.
Kirk had emerged as one of Rittenhouse’s most vocal advocates during his highly publicized trial. He invited Rittenhouse to appear on “The Charlie Kirk Show” multiple times and featured him at various Turning Point USA events, providing him a platform when many others wouldn’t. During Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest conference in Phoenix back in December 2021, Kirk publicly referred to Rittenhouse as “a hero to millions.” Their relationship continued to deepen over the years, with Kirk even threatening legal action in 2024 after protesters confronted Rittenhouse during his appearance at the University of Memphis, demonstrating Kirk’s unwavering commitment to standing by his friend despite potential backlash.
Since being acquitted of all charges related to the Kenosha, Wisconsin shootings—where Rittenhouse shot three men during a 2020 Black Lives Matter riot, resulting in two fatalities—he has largely maintained a low profile. The case had divided the nation, with some viewing him as acting in self-defense while others criticized him for bringing a rifle to a volatile situation. Throughout this tumultuous period, Kirk remained steadfast in his support, offering Rittenhouse both a public platform and private friendship when many others kept their distance. This loyalty clearly fostered a deep bond between the two men that transcended political allegiances.
The memorial service for Kirk drew thousands to State Farm Arena, illustrating the significant impact the conservative activist had on numerous lives across the country. For many like Rittenhouse, Kirk wasn’t just a political figure but someone who offered personal support during difficult times. Kirk’s willingness to advocate for controversial figures like Rittenhouse showed his commitment to standing by his principles regardless of public opinion—a quality that many of his supporters particularly admired. His sudden death on September 10, 2025, while speaking at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, sent shockwaves through conservative circles and beyond.
The public memorial service featured prominent speakers including President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, underscoring Kirk’s influence within conservative politics. For Rittenhouse, attending the service represented not just mourning a political ally but grieving a personal friend who had stood by him when he felt most isolated. “Charlie meant a lot to me,” Rittenhouse explained, his words conveying the genuine connection that had formed between them. While their relationship began in the context of political controversy, it had clearly evolved into something more meaningful—a friendship based on mutual respect and loyalty.
As thousands gathered to remember Charlie Kirk, the memorial service highlighted how a single individual can touch countless lives in different ways. For some, Kirk was a political visionary and the “godfather of campus conservatism”; for others, including religious leaders present at the service, he represented steadfast faith and conviction; and for individuals like Kyle Rittenhouse, he was simply a loyal friend during life’s darkest moments. Despite the graphic and traumatic nature of Kirk’s death, as noted by pastors at the service, the focus remained on celebrating his life and legacy rather than the tragedy of his assassination. Rittenhouse’s presence and testimony served as a powerful reminder that beyond the political headlines and divisive debates, human connections often run deeper than ideological differences.
