Trump Unveils 2025 Kennedy Center Honorees: Kiss, Stallone, Strait Among Picks
Trump Unveils 2025 Kennedy Center Honorees: Kiss, Stallone, Strait Among Picks

Washington D.C. – The 2025 Kennedy Center Honorees have been officially announced, with iconic acts Kiss, Sylvester Stallone, George Strait, Gloria Gaynor, and English actor Michael Crawford set to receive the prestigious awards. The ceremony is slated for December 8th in Washington, D.C., and will be hosted by former President Donald Trump.
Trump, who recently assumed the chairmanship of the Kennedy Center, unveiled the honorees yesterday, August 13, 2025, during a press conference. He declared his intent to end “woke political programming” and restore the center’s status as a premier performing arts venue. This marks a significant shift, as Trump previously broke tradition by not attending the honors during his first administration.
The selection of honorees reflects Trump’s stated goal of a “slightly more conservative” approach. Sylvester Stallone and George Strait are known for their support or perceived alignment with conservative views, with Stallone having publicly praised Trump. Gene Simmons of Kiss, while a conservative voice, has expressed criticism of Trump’s political impact. Despite past criticisms, all four members of Kiss released statements expressing pride in the honor, with Ace Frehley and Peter Criss acknowledging it as a “dream come true.” Gloria Gaynor, celebrated for “I Will Survive,” was also personally championed by Trump.
The December ceremony could mark a rare reunion for all four original members of Kiss, who last appeared together at their 2014 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction.
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