The 2025 Kennedy Center Honors have been announced, celebrating a distinguished group of artists whose contributions have significantly shaped the cultural landscape. President Donald Trump will preside over the 48th annual ceremony, scheduled for December 7th, with broadcasts to be aired on CBS and Paramount+.
This year's honorees represent a diverse spectrum of artistic achievement. Country music titan George Strait, a record-holder with over 60 No. 1 singles and more than 120 million records sold worldwide, is recognized for his enduring impact on American music. His career, which began in the late 1970s, has been marked by a consistent dedication to traditional country sounds, earning him the title "King of Country Music." Strait's accolades include multiple CMA and ACM Entertainer of the Year awards, and his induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2006.
Broadway legend Michael Crawford, celebrated for his iconic portrayal of the Phantom in Andrew Lloyd Webber's "The Phantom of the Opera," will also receive the prestigious honor. Crawford's versatile career spans acclaimed roles in musicals like "Barnum" and "The Woman in White," as well as memorable television performances. His theatrical achievements have been recognized with both Olivier and Tony Awards.
Action film icon Sylvester Stallone, renowned for his indelible roles in the "Rocky" and "Rambo" franchises, is among the distinguished recipients. Stallone's career, spanning over five decades, includes numerous directorial and screenwriting credits, solidifying his status as a multifaceted talent in Hollywood.
Disco pioneer Gloria Gaynor, whose anthem "I Will Survive" became a global phenomenon and a symbol of resilience, is also being honored. Released in 1978, the song resonated with audiences for its empowering message and has since been preserved in the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress. Gaynor's musical journey includes a Grammy win for Best Disco Recording and a continued legacy as an influential voice in music.
Rounding out the honorees is the legendary rock band KISS. Formed in 1973, KISS revolutionized live rock performances with their elaborate makeup, costumes, and pyrotechnics. With over 100 million albums sold worldwide and 30 Gold albums, they hold the record for the most Gold Album Record Awards of any American band. Their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014 further cements their status as one of rock's most influential acts.
The announcement follows recent administrative shifts at the Kennedy Center, with President Trump assuming the role of Board Chair earlier this year. His involvement in the selection process has been notably public, with the President stating he was "about 98 percent" involved in choosing this year's honorees. The ceremony aims to celebrate artistic excellence and its profound influence on American culture, reflecting a commitment to recognizing enduring contributions to the performing arts.