Honors for Kennedy Center: Trump designates Strait, Stallone, and Kiss, stating his intention to host the awards ceremony himself.
In a dramatic shift from tradition, the Kennedy Center Honors selection process has undergone significant changes under the leadership of President Donald Trump as the center's chairman.
Trump's active involvement in the Kennedy Center has been evident since his return to office, with his aggressive takeover of the institution's leadership and the firing of the board of trustees, replaced by loyalists. This move marked the beginning of a centralised selection process for the Kennedy Center Honors, with Trump personally approving or rejecting candidates.
Historically, the honorees have been chosen based on their lifetime contributions to American culture in music, dance, theater, opera, motion pictures, or television. The selection process was overseen by a Special Honors Advisory Committee, comprising board members, past honorees, and distinguished artists. However, under Trump's tenure, the selection process has become centralised under his direct control.
This year, Trump announced the first batch of nominees under his leadership, including Sylvester Stallone, Kiss, George Strait, Gloria Gaynor, and Michael Crawford. The President described the chosen artists as "great people." This marks a departure from past tradition, where announcements were made by the Kennedy Center itself, often accompanied by input from multiple stakeholders within the arts community.
Trump's involvement in the Kennedy Center Honors has not been without controversy. He has vowed to end events featuring performers in drag and has faced criticism from some artists for his politically charged approach to the honors.
In the past, the Kennedy Center has been a bipartisan institution, with figures like Barbra Streisand and Warren Beatty being honored during Republican administrations, and Charlton Heston being feted during the administration of Democrat Bill Clinton. However, under Trump's leadership, the honoree selection process has reflected his preferences and political views.
Looking ahead, the Kennedy Center will be featured in next year's celebrations of America's 250th anniversary. Trump has also indicated his intention to "fully renovate" the Kennedy Center to make it a "crown jewel" of arts and culture in the United States.
This new era for the Kennedy Center Honors has drawn mixed reactions, with some praising Trump's personal touch and others criticising his politicisation of the awards. Regardless, the Kennedy Center continues to stand as a symbol of American culture and art, ready to face the challenges and opportunities of the future.
[1] Trump Takes Over Kennedy Center [2] Kennedy Center Honors: A Brief History [3] Trump: "I'm About 98% Involved" in Kennedy Center Honors Selection [4] Trump Announces Kennedy Center Honorees [5] Trump Fires Kennedy Center Board of Trustees
Read also:
- Today's most impactful photographic moments
- Support for Eric Adams in The Post's Letters to the Editor on August 13, 2025
- Roosting Shark and Rambunctious Red Squirrels: Unconventional House Rental in Yorkshire Involving Aquatic Marvel, Squirrely Mayhem, and Mystical Planning Regulations
- Devastated Loved Ones Recall Oasis Fan Following Fatal Mishap at Wembley Show
