Candace Owens Releases Documentary on Erika Kirk, Sparking Backlash

The conservative influencer's new film about the wife of late activist Charlie Kirk has drawn criticism from supporters of the Turning Point USA founder.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Conservative influencer Candace Owens has released a trailer for a new documentary titled "Bride of Charlie" that focuses on Erika Kirk, the wife of deceased Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk. The documentary has sparked backlash on social media, with some accusing Owens of creating a "hit piece series" against Erika Kirk. Owens has repeatedly questioned the circumstances surrounding Charlie Kirk's death in 2025 and has speculated, without evidence, about potential involvement from pro-Israel groups.

Why it matters

The documentary has further divided the Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement, with some supporters standing by Erika Kirk while others back Candace Owens' claims. This controversy highlights the ongoing tensions within conservative circles over the investigation into Charlie Kirk's death and the role of his wife Erika.

The details

Owens, a podcaster and conservative activist, posted a trailer for the documentary "Bride of Charlie" on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday. The trailer featured clips of Erika Kirk giving interviews about her late husband. Responding to the trailer, some social media users accused Owens of making a "hit piece series" against Erika Kirk. It is unclear whether the documentary will make any specific accusations about Erika Kirk.

  • Candace Owens posted the trailer for "Bride of Charlie" on X on Monday, February 24, 2026.
  • Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot during a campus speaking event at Utah Valley University in Orem on September 10, 2025.

The players

Candace Owens

A conservative influencer and podcaster who has repeatedly questioned the circumstances surrounding Charlie Kirk's death in 2025 and has speculated, without evidence, about potential involvement from pro-Israel groups.

Erika Kirk

The wife of the late Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk. She has denied Owens' claims and accused her of making money by "going after the people that I love."

Tyler Robinson

A 22-year-old man who has been charged with the aggravated murder of Charlie Kirk and other offenses, including felony firearm discharge, obstruction of justice, and witness tampering. Prosecutors have indicated that they will seek the death penalty.

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What they’re saying

“Erika Kirk had nothing to do with her husband's death; that is just ludicrous.”

— Alex Stein, Comedian (Sky News)

“She's got a documentary filled with total randoms coming out that will prove nothing, as usual.”

— Kevin Smith (X)

“Every Christian of conscience should rebuke this, and not a single one should watch it.”

— Jackie Chea, Conservative Christian blogger (X)

What’s next

Tyler Robinson's trial, where prosecutors have indicated they will seek the death penalty, is the next major development in this case.

The takeaway

The controversy surrounding Candace Owens' documentary on Erika Kirk highlights the deep divisions within the conservative MAGA movement over the investigation into Charlie Kirk's death and the role of his wife. This case underscores the need for transparency and a thorough, impartial investigation to provide closure and healing for all involved.