Artists Cut Ties with Kennedy Center Following Trump Takeover

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The Kennedy Center is facing a growing wave of backlash from the entertainment industry after former president Donald Trump pushed out its leadership and took over as chairman.

Emmy-nominated actress, writer, and producer Issa Rae announced the cancellation of her sold-out event at the Washington, D.C. venue, citing concerns over the institution’s new direction. "Due to what I believe to be an infringement on the values of an institution that has faithfully celebrated artists of all backgrounds through all mediums, I’ve decided to cancel my appearance at this venue," Rae shared in a statement. Ticket holders will receive full refunds.

Rae isn’t alone in her stance. Philadelphia rock band Low Cut Connie also pulled their scheduled performance. Frontman Adam Weiner explained that his band, which champions diversity and inclusion, could not support an arts institution now chaired by Trump. "Maybe my career will suffer from this decision, but my soul will be the better for it," Weiner wrote.

High-profile figures within the industry have also severed ties. Shonda Rhimes, the powerhouse creator behind Grey’s Anatomy and Bridgerton, resigned from the Kennedy Center’s board, citing a commitment to artistic freedom. Meanwhile, singer-songwriter Ben Folds and opera star Renée Fleming stepped down from their advisory positions with the National Symphony Orchestra, expressing concern over the new leadership’s lack of arts experience.

The Kennedy Center, a cultural landmark established in honour of President John F. Kennedy, has long been a non-partisan home for the arts. With these recent resignations and cancellations, many are questioning what the future holds for the institution under its new leadership.