Trump Reveals the Kennedy Center Honorees and Suggests He’ll Honor Himself Next. Here’s Who Was Chosen and Why

Donald Trump Unveils Kennedy Center Honorees: Discover Who Made the Cut and Why

President Donald Trump recently announced the selection of honorees for the prestigious 2025 Kennedy Center Honors at a live event on August 13. The president disclosed that he would be hosting the December award ceremony, adding a personal touch to the event. In an unexpected twist, he alluded to potentially honoring himself in the following year.

Trump, while announcing the revered recipients, expressed his involvement in the selection process after appointing himself as the chairman of the Kennedy Center earlier in the year. The president revealed that he had a significant role in choosing the honorees and rejected those he deemed “too woke”. This move reflects his ongoing efforts to assert control over the cultural institution founded in memory of John F. Kennedy.

The 2025 Kennedy Center Honorees announced by Trump include several iconic figures from the world of entertainment. The first honoree highlighted was action movie legend Sylvester Stallone, a close friend and long-time supporter of the president. Trump praised Stallone’s talent and contribution to American pop culture, comparing his Hollywood stardom to that of the president himself.

Broadway and West End star Michael Crawford was also among the chosen honorees, with Trump commending his exceptional talent and impact on the musical theatre scene. The president reminisced about being present at Crawford’s Broadway debut and lauded him as a generational talent with an unmatched voice.

Music icon Gloria Gaynor, known for her disco hit “I Will Survive”, received acclaim from Trump for her musical prowess. The president’s admiration for Gaynor’s timeless songs was evident as he acknowledged her contribution to American music history.

Rock band KISS was recognised as one of the greatest rock bands of all time, though Trump’s endorsement seemed lukewarm. Despite some wavering support from the band’s frontman Gene Simmons in the past, KISS was acknowledged for their global success and enduring legacy.

Country music legend George Strait was also honoured by Trump, heralded as the “king of country” with a vast following of devoted fans worldwide. Strait’s apolitical stance has not deterred Trump supporters from interpreting his actions, such as dedicating a song to first responders, as signs of admiration towards the president.

Following the announcement of the honorees, Trump used the celebratory occasion to address pressing political issues. From plans to federalize the D.C. police to threats aimed at Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the war in Ukraine, the president’s remarks touched on a range of topics. Despite expressing concerns over the ongoing conflicts, Trump admitted the challenges in convincing Putin to stop the violence against civilians in Ukraine.

In conclusion, Trump’s selection of the Kennedy Center Honorees for 2025 reflects a mix of entertainment icons who have left a lasting impact on American culture. The president’s personal involvement in the selection process adds a unique touch to the prestigious awards ceremony, setting the stage for an eventful and memorable celebration of talent and achievement in the performing arts.