The Kennedy Center Honors took on an unprecedented atmosphere as former television star and media mogul Donald Trump took center stage, an unusual sight for an event steeped in artistic tradition. Dressed in a tuxedo, accompanied by First Lady Melania Trump, he appeared genuinely at ease, engaging with attendees for twenty minutes before retreating backstage.
This wasn’t merely a presidential appearance; Trump became the first president to *host* the ceremony, reaffirming its broadcast partnership with CBS. He didn’t simply preside over the event – he delivered a performance, a blend of stand-up comedy reminiscent of Johnny Carson and Don Rickles, acknowledging his inspirations to the captivated audience.
“Persistence,” he declared, identifying the common thread uniting the evening’s honorees. He then turned to the audience, a mix of entertainers and political figures, with a characteristic candor: “I know so many of you…you are persistent. Many of you are miserable, horrible people. But you never give up.”
The 48th annual ceremony celebrated five iconic figures: country legend George Strait, disco queen Gloria Gaynor, Broadway star Michael Crawford, action icon Sylvester Stallone, and the enduring rock band Kiss. Yet, even amidst their accolades, Trump commanded the spotlight, transforming the event into his own unique show.
Anticipating criticism, Trump preemptively addressed the “fake news,” predicting negative reviews while confidently asserting, “we get big ratings tonight.” Despite playful jabs at Washington’s elite, he also offered self-deprecating humor, urging the audience to focus on the extraordinary talents being honored – “among the greatest artists ever to walk the face of the Earth.”
Behind the scenes, a massive teleprompter worked tirelessly, adjusting its pace to keep up with a president who treated the script as a flexible guide. A poignant moment arose when Trump reflected on the grief of Kiss guitarist Ace Frehley’s daughter, praising her tears as a testament to love, then abruptly quipped, “I usually see people who don’t cry – they couldn’t care less!”
Trump’s influence extended beyond the stage. He had recently taken a more direct role at the Kennedy Center, reshaping the board and personally influencing the selection of honorees, dismissing some candidates as too “woke.” The institution’s vice president for public relations spoke of a desire to offer “something for everyone,” emphasizing family-friendly programming in a cultural climate she described as “under attack.”
The evening wasn’t without its undercurrents. A previous protest involving a nude contract worker highlighted tensions surrounding Trump’s involvement, while the recurring theme of “commonsense” signaled a shift in the Kennedy Center’s direction. Kiss, in particular, was treated as the evening’s focal point.
Paul Stanley of Kiss, who had previously voiced strong opposition to Trump, adopted a patriotic tone, framing his presence as proof of the American dream. He emphasized the importance of recognizing artists with broad appeal, arguing that the coasts often overlook the heartland of America and its diverse tastes.
Peter Criss, nearing his 80th birthday, expressed pure joy, calling the honor the “greatest of our career.” He excitedly shared plans to donate a cherished personal item – a cross he’d worn for fifty years – to the Smithsonian, hoping it would be displayed near artifacts related to Abraham Lincoln.
Gene Simmons, however, engaged in a spirited exchange with a reporter attempting to revisit his past criticisms of Trump. He sharply rebuked the line of questioning, accusing her of “clickbait” and turning the tables with a provocative personal inquiry. His wife, visibly exasperated, eventually walked away from the encounter.
Simmons, a legal immigrant, powerfully articulated the significance of the occasion. “When my mother and I came to America…just stepping onto the grounds here where nobody was trying to kill us…you win,” he declared, contrasting the freedoms enjoyed in America with the dangers faced elsewhere.
The presence of White House officials added a political dimension to the event, prompting nostalgia for a less polarized era. Magician Criss Angel recalled the days of Reagan and O’Neill, who could disagree vehemently yet maintain a respectful friendship, a sentiment echoed by many.
Photography was strictly prohibited during the performance, with security swiftly addressing any violations. The production itself was flawless, with lighting effects that synchronized with the diverse musical styles, from disco to ballads to rock anthems. A stellar lineup of guest artists performed tributes to the honorees, including Garth Brooks, Miranda Lambert, and many others.
Trump, observing from his box seat adorned with a presidential seal, acknowledged that many performers “probably don’t like me very much.” But he countered with a characteristic assertion: “We want bigness, right?” It was a revealing statement, highlighting his focus on scale and impact over personal approval.
While a “vibe shift” may be occurring in popular culture, the entertainment industry’s inner circles still view Trump and his associates with caution. Recent protests, like Sabrina Carpenter’s condemnation of the administration’s use of her music, underscored this tension. An entertainer’s presence at the event felt subtly rebellious, a transgression of unspoken boundaries.
The Kennedy Center Honors, under Trump’s direction, didn’t resemble a typical Hollywood gala. It celebrated longevity and consistent quality, rather than cutting-edge trends. As the night culminated in a rousing performance of Kiss’s “Rock and Roll All Nite,” even the usually reserved Melania Trump was seen dancing with the honorees.
Whether the energy will translate to the televised broadcast remains to be seen. But for one night, guests experienced an undeniably electric and unconventional spectacle, orchestrated by a figure who consistently defies expectations.
