Trump Hosts Kennedy Center Honors for First Time as President Tightens Grip on Iconic Arts Institution

U.S. President Donald Trump took center stage at Washington’s John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on Sunday, hosting the prestigious Kennedy Center Honors for the first time and signaling his deepening influence over the renowned cultural institution. The ceremony, considered one of America’s highest recognitions for lifetime achievement in the performing arts, celebrated a star-studded lineup including Sylvester Stallone, Gloria Gaynor, George Strait, Michael Crawford, and legendary rock band KISS.

Trump, who played a role in selecting this year’s honorees, avoided attending Kennedy Center events during his first term. In his second term, however, he has become heavily involved—dismissing the former president of the center, installing a new board that named him chair, and initiating sweeping renovations. His decision to preside over the awards marks the first time a sitting U.S. president has hosted the ceremony, traditionally led by entertainers or notable cultural figures.

Arriving with First Lady Melania Trump, he told reporters the Kennedy Center was “going to be brought back to life,” adding, “We are saving the Kennedy Center.” When asked whether the center might one day bear his name, Trump said the decision rested with the board he now leads.

Trump’s imprint extends beyond the arts complex. His administration recently approved the demolition of the White House East Wing to build a 90,000-square-foot ballroom, part of a broader effort to reshape historic federal properties.

The Kennedy Center’s new president, Ric Grenell—formerly Trump’s ambassador to Germany—is managing ongoing multimillion-dollar renovations and a revamped slate of events, though his tenure has stirred staff departures and concern within the arts community.

During an Oval Office ceremony on Saturday, Trump presented honorees with redesigned gold medallions featuring blue ribbons, replacing the center’s long-used rainbow-colored ribbons. He praised the artists as icons who helped define American music, film, and theater.

This year’s Kennedy Center Honors will air on CBS on December 23.