Honoring Artists with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Kennedy Center, initiated by Donald Trump - Trump-led Kennedy Center celebrates artist for a lifetime of artistic accomplishment
In a break from tradition, Donald Trump, the US President, has taken an unusually hands-on approach to the Kennedy Center Honors, Washington's largest cultural institution. Trump, who became chairman of the Kennedy Center shortly after his inauguration, has dismissed several board members and appointed his former US ambassador to Germany, Richard Grenell, as president of the Kennedy Center.
For the 2025 Kennedy Center Honors, Trump has selected and announced the recipients himself, including notable artists like disco singer Gloria Gaynor, actor and filmmaker Sylvester Stallone, and glam rock band Kiss. Trump described the honorees as "unbelievable people" and emphasized he did not want to politicize the awards despite mentioning unrelated political topics during his announcement.
Gloria Gaynor's singing career spans five decades, while Sylvester Stallone is famous for his roles in action films like Rocky and Rambo, inspiring people worldwide with themes of perseverance and triumph against all odds. British actor Michael Crawford is also recognized for his talents in theater, television, film, and music. Country musician George Strait is being honoured for his support of military families and wounded veterans.
The New York-based band Kiss, with over 100 million albums sold, is considered one of the "rock kings" of the world. Sylvester Stallone is a known supporter of Donald Trump, and Trump named him a "special envoy" for his interests in Hollywood in January. Trump referred to Stallone as a "friend" and "phenomenal guy" during the Kennedy Center honors announcement.
The Kennedy Center Honors ceremony will take place on December 7 at the Kennedy Center Opera House. The honors this year are seen as part of a larger American culture war, where conservatives aim to eliminate overly liberal ideologies. However, the focus remains on the honorees and their significant contributions to the arts.
[1] The Washington Post: Donald Trump personally chose the Kennedy Center Honors recipients
[2] CNN: Donald Trump takes control of the Kennedy Center
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