
President Trump, now chair of the Kennedy Center, has revealed the recipients of this year’s prestigious Honors. The lineup includes country music legend George Strait, Hollywood icon Sylvester Stallone, disco star Gloria Gaynor, classic rock band Kiss, and famed actor Michael Crawford—best known for his role in The Phantom of the Opera.
Breaking from tradition, Trump will personally host the ceremony in December, which will be broadcast on CBS. He also unveiled plans to fully renovate the aging venue and restore it as America’s premier cultural institution. This follows his earlier dismissal of the Center’s board and a controversial revamp of its leadership.
Trump emphasized his heavy involvement in the honoree selection—claiming to be “about 98% involved”—and said he eliminated candidates he considered too “woke.” His decisions have sparked backlash, including boycotts from performers and resignations within the Center’s leadership.