UPDATE: President Donald Trump is set to make history tonight as the first sitting president to host the Kennedy Center Honors, a move that marks a significant departure from tradition. The ceremony, scheduled for December 23, 2025, will air live on CBS and Paramount+, showcasing a star-studded lineup of honorees.
Earlier today, Trump presented the 2025 honorees with their medals during a ceremony in the Oval Office. He praised the group as “perhaps the most accomplished and renowned class” in the event’s history. The distinguished recipients include actor Sylvester Stallone, iconic singers Gloria Gaynor and George Strait, the legendary rock band Kiss, and acclaimed actor-singer Michael Crawford.
In a candid moment, Trump expressed his admiration for the honorees, stating, “I know most of them and I’ve been a fan of all of them.” This unprecedented hosting role has drawn attention, as previous presidents have typically observed the event from the audience.
Trump’s hosting marks a stark shift from the past, where figures such as journalist Walter Cronkite and comedian Stephen Colbert led the ceremony. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick commented on Trump’s unique ability to engage with the audience, saying, “Oh, this president, he is so relaxed in front of these cameras, as you know, and so funny.”
Historical context adds depth to tonight’s event. Since its inception in 1978, the Kennedy Center Honors has celebrated influential figures in American culture. This year’s honorees span various genres, with Stallone recognized for his legendary roles in “Rocky” and “Rambo,” Gaynor for her anthem “I Will Survive,” and Kiss for their theatrical performances.
The emotional weight of the evening is heightened by the recent passing of Kiss co-founder Ace Frehley, who died in October. Gene Simmons, another member of Kiss, revealed that Trump has assured him there will be an empty chair at the ceremony in Frehley’s memory.
Stallone described receiving this honor as being in the “eye of a hurricane,” expressing his gratitude and humility. “It’s hard to take it in until the next day,” he added. Gaynor echoed this sentiment, stating that being recognized in this way is “the pinnacle” of her career.
Trump’s involvement in selecting the honorees has drawn mixed reactions, particularly regarding his past comments on the center’s leadership and programming. He has previously criticized the center and suggested a potential name change to the “Trump Kennedy Center.” Despite his controversial remarks, he has secured over $250 million from Congress for renovations to the venue.
As the ceremony approaches, anticipation builds around the ratings, with Trump predicting it will achieve record viewership. “I think it will be the best ratings ever,” he stated confidently.
Tonight’s event not only celebrates artistic achievements but also reflects an evolving relationship between politics and the arts. The Kennedy Center Honors have previously brought together figures with opposing political views, creating a unique platform for dialogue and recognition.
With the spotlight on Trump as the host, viewers worldwide will be eagerly watching to see how he navigates this new role and the impact it will have on the storied tradition of the Kennedy Center Honors. As the evening unfolds, it promises to be a night filled with emotion, celebration, and a touch of political history.
