UPDATE: President Donald Trump mistakenly pronounced his friend and supporter Sylvester Stallone’s name during a ceremony on December 2, 2023, in the Oval Office. The event was held just ahead of the much-anticipated Kennedy Center Honors ceremony scheduled for December 3, where Stallone is among the honorees.
During the livestreamed presentation, Trump called Stallone a “wonderful person” and “one of the true great movie stars,” but flubbed his name as “Sylvester ‘Sly’ Sallone,” omitting the “t.” The awkward moment occurred as Trump presented Stallone with a medallion crafted by Tiffany & Co., a prestigious gesture that showcased the ceremony’s significance.
Stallone, who publicly endorsed Trump after the 2024 election, did not react visibly to the name blunder. Trump repeated the error while presenting the medallion, muttering to himself in disbelief. Earlier, Stallone had praised Trump as “a mythical character,” emphasizing the president’s unique political journey.
The ceremony is set to be recorded and broadcast later in December, marking a historic moment with Trump hosting the event—an unprecedented move for a sitting president. Traditionally, presidents attend the honors as audience members. Trump expressed his excitement, claiming, “This will be the highest-rated show that they’ve ever done,” hinting at a spectacle that could captivate millions.
The event also highlighted the emotional connection Stallone’s films have with audiences. Vice President JD Vance lauded Stallone’s impact on families, recalling how his grandmother cherished his movies for their representation of working-class struggles. “People of humble beginnings made the American dream a reality,” Vance noted, reflecting on the deep cultural resonance Stallone’s work has had across generations.
As the Kennedy Center Honors approaches, the spotlight remains firmly on Trump and Stallone’s dynamic relationship. With the ceremony promising star-studded tributes, including performances from Gloria Gaynor, Michael Crawford, and the iconic rock band KISS, anticipation is building.
Stay tuned for live updates and coverage of the Kennedy Center Honors, where the evening’s tributes will celebrate the contributions of these cultural icons.
