President Donald Trump has initiated significant changes to the Kennedy Center Honors as the ceremony approaches. Established in 1978, this prestigious event honors several performing artists annually for their lifelong contributions to culture. Presented by the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., it is regarded as the nation’s highest recognition in the performing arts.
Since returning to the White House in January, Trump, now 79, has taken over as chairman of the Kennedy Center, launching efforts to revitalize the program and create a more glamorous, star-studded gala.
In August, Trump unveiled this year’s honorees, including country music icon George Strait, Hollywood’s Sylvester Stallone, rock band Kiss, Broadway star Michael Crawford, and Grammy winner Gloria Gaynor.
Sylvester Stallone remarked on receiving the Kennedy Center honor, saying, “The 48th Kennedy Center Honorees are incredible… In the few months since I became Kennedy Center Chair, we’ve completely reversed the decline of this national treasure.”
Changes in the Selection Process
Traditionally, honorees were chosen by a bipartisan committee alongside the artistic staff, board, and advisors. Typically, presidents play a ceremonial role—hosting receptions and attending events—but don’t usually engage in the selection process. However, Trump stated during an announcement at the Kennedy Center in August that he was heavily involved in selecting the honorees for 2025.
Though a special advisory committee made recommendations, Trump indicated that he ultimately made the final decisions, noting, “I was about 98% involved… It all went through me.”
When reporters pressed him about his level of involvement, he added, “I pretty much said no, because they were up too much. We have great people. This is a lot different than before.” Additionally, Trump has voiced his discontent with Hollywood’s awards shows, criticizing the Oscars for poor reviews and low viewership.
New Medallions
The medallions awarded to the honorees had remained unchanged for 47 years. Traditionally crafted by the Baturin family, the circular gold medallion, symbolizing the Kennedy Center, featured a design that reflected its building. Recently, the Kennedy Center announced that Tiffany & Co. has reimagined the medallion.
The new design features etchings of the Kennedy Center and a rainbow of colors, representing the diverse arts celebrated. The medallion, which will hang from a navy blue ribbon, includes the recipient’s name and the date of the ceremony.
Governance Reforms
In February, Trump announced major reforms at the Kennedy Center, including the dismissal of several directors appointed by previous administrations. He took on the role of chairman, claiming that he and the previous leadership did not share a vision for the center’s future. Trump also criticized past programming, specifically mentioning drag shows aimed at youth.
The revamped board features 14 members, including notable supporters and allies. Trump appointed Rick Grenell as the interim executive director, replacing former director Deborah Rutter.
Shifts in Honoree Demographics
The 2025 honorees—Kiss, Gloria Gaynor, George Strait, Sylvester Stallone, and Michael Crawford—mark a noticeable shift toward recognizing artists from mainstream pop culture, departing from the classical arts focus of earlier years. While previous decades highlighted figures primarily from traditional art forms, the current lineup emphasizes rock, disco, country, and Broadway.
In a statement, Grenell noted the importance of these winners, explaining how their contributions “remind us that art is for everyone.”
Hosting of the Honors
Trump will be the first sitting president to host the Kennedy Center Honors Gala, a decision he was initially reluctant about but eventually agreed to after persuasion from his team. Remembering his experience as a reality show host, he expressed confidence that the event would be successful.
The 48th Kennedy Center Honors will occur on December 7 at the Kennedy Center and will be broadcast on December 23 through CBS.
