The pro-Trump musician, whose real name is Robert James Ritchie, told Watters that he planned to dress as a “retard,” using an ableist slur that Donald Trump supporters praised but which drew condemnation elsewhere.
Kid Rock set up the exchange by first asking Watters what he’d be wearing for Halloween.
“My whole family is doing Scooby-Doo,” Watters replied. “My son’s going to be Scooby-Doo. I’m Shaggy, kind of dressed like you, big baggy clothes, long hair, just gonna have a little flask while I walk around.”
The singer then pulled out a face mask, put it over his mouth and excitedly asked, “Guess what I’m gonna be? Guess what I’m gonna be?”
Watters guessed “Fauci,” referring to Dr. Anthony Fauci, the former director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases who oversaw the U.S. COVID-19 response and who became a bogeyman for the political right.
“A retard, a retard,” Kid Rock replied.
Watters laughed and said, “OK, I guess you can be anything for Halloween.”
Kid Rock added, “Greatest costume ever.”