Legendary rock band KISS will be recognized as recipients of the Kennedy Center Honors during the first awards gala led by U.S. President Donald Trump, who is serving as the chairman of the board of the Kennedy Center. All four original members will reunite for ‘something special.’
Also being honored at this event are country music star George Strait, “Rocky” actor Sylvester Stallone, singer Gloria Gaynor, and actor-singer Michael Crawford.
Trump announced the honorees during a press conference at the performing arts center on Wednesday.
“The 48th Kennedy Center honorees are outstanding people, an outstanding group — incredible,” Trump said. “We can’t wait to celebrate the Kennedy Center Honors.”
Trump will also host and produce the show, which recognizes and celebrates individuals who have made significant contributions to American culture through performing arts. The annual ceremony traditionally takes place in Washington, D.C. in December and airs on CBS.
The Kennedy Center previewed the announcement Tuesday, writing in a post on X: “A country music icon, an Englishman, a New York City Rock band, a dance Queen and a multi-billion dollar Actor walk into the Kennedy Center Opera House…”
During his first term, Trump seemingly paid no attention to the Kennedy Center, often skipping the honors ceremony. He has since vowed to transform the marquee arts center, first ousting its leadership board, then filling the board of trustees with his loyalists.
