“Dukes of Hazzard” actor and musician John Schneider opened up about the meaning behind his new song written for Charlie Kirk.
On Friday, the 65-year-old released “Charlie’s Words”, which he described as a tribute to Kirk, the 31-year-old Turning Point USA founder and conservative activist who was assassinated on Sept. 10 at Utah Valley University.
During an interview with Fox News Digital, Schneider, who plans to donate the proceeds from the song to Turning Point USA, discussed whether the song is meant as a call to action after Kirk’s death.
“I think we’ve already been called to action,” Schneider said. “This song is a tribute to a wonderful guy. It’s for those who’ve already been called to action. So now it’s kind of a battle cry.”
He added, “It’s a call to battle, but it’s a battle of wits and intelligence. It’s a battle of good versus evil. We’ve been involved in this battle for the last few years, and it amazes me how people can’t see that.”
Schneider joked, “But I’m a Christian guy who drinks bourbon. So what do I know?” He explained that he hopes the song inspires people to make a difference in their homes, towns, and states.
Schneider said the country is at an important moment, believing that politics has “tilted over onto the side of sanity and of common sense.”
He emphasized, “We must not get comfortable with the position we fought for, the position Charlie Kirk gave his life for. Let’s keep going. Let’s make it better for our kids, for our elderly, let’s make it great.”
Kirk was shot while hosting an outdoor Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University, where he was answering questions during his signature “Prove Me Wrong” debates.
Kirk’s alleged killer, Tyler Robinson, 22, was arrested on Sept. 12 in Washington County, Utah. Prosecutors and Robinson’s family said he had become more politically active, especially supporting LGBTQ+ rights, which clashed with his family’s conservative views. Some of his texts suggested an ideological motive, believing Kirk was spreading hate.
On Tuesday, Robinson was formally charged with aggravated murder and other serious crimes. He will remain in custody without bail, and prosecutors plan to seek the death penalty.
Since Kirk’s assassination, several people, including teachers, pilots, and healthcare workers, faced consequences for posting hateful or mocking messages online.
Schneider told Fox News Digital that he was moved to write “Charlie’s Words” after seeing the online backlash.
“What first moved me was the ignorance of the people who didn’t seem to understand that this man was giving a voice to people,” he said.
He continued, “A lot of people love him, but I’m amazed at the anger and hatred out there. Charlie was such an outspoken, amazing guy. He’d say, ‘Change my mind. Bring more than a participation award to this debate.’”
Schneider said the song reflects his admiration for Kirk as a communicator and leader.
“His belief in Jesus Christ made him strong,” Schneider said. “He encouraged people to bring their best in every conversation, unlike many who dominate debates with power and opinion. Charlie never did that. He was misunderstood by many who didn’t listen.”
Some lyrics in the song were inspired by Kirk and his wife, Erika Kirk. Last Friday, Erika spoke publicly for the first time since Kirk’s death, honoring him and promising to continue his mission.
Schneider explained, “One of the lines says, ‘He gave strength to people even when they disagree. Speak it loud, speak it proud with a voice God gave to them.’ Erika told me, ‘They have no idea what they’ve done.’ They’ve inspired people of faith to take action.”
He added, “People will bring their best to debates, church, local politics—everywhere. Now they are speaking their words, fueled by Charlie’s words. We have a responsibility to his legacy and family.”
Schneider said, “We can’t just sit on the fence anymore and watch Charlie fight our battles. It’s our turn.”
The public memorial for Kirk is set for Sunday at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. Kirk was a close ally of President Donald Trump, who will speak at the event, along with Vice President J.D. Vance and other Trump administration officials.
Schneider and his wife, Dee Dee, plan to watch the memorial, which will air on major networks and live-stream on Kirk’s Rumble account.
“I’m sure it’s going to be unbelievably amazing,” Schneider said. “He deserves it. So we’ll be there in spirit.”
